San Antonio Theft Attorney
Experienced Theft Attorneys in San Antonio, Texas
Theft crimes in San Antonio, Texas are serious offenses that carry significant penalties. In the Lone Star State, these offenses range from relatively minor shoplifting to grand theft auto. Generally, theft is classified as taking another person’s property or services without their consent and with the intent of depriving them of its value or use. Depending on the circumstances, a conviction for theft can lead to fines, restitution payments, probation, and even jail time.
In Texas, theft is divided into two different categories: misdemeanor and felony. A misdemeanor theft charge can be leveled if an individual steals property valued at less than $2,500 or if they steal livestock or a firearm of any value. The potential punishments associated with a misdemeanor theft conviction can include up to one year in jail and/or a fine up to $4,000.
Individuals charged with felony thefts face more severe consequences for their actions. A felony charge applies when an individual steals property valued at more than $2,500 or takes livestock valued at more than $20,000 in addition to other types of property such as motor vehicles or firearms regardless of their value. Those convicted of felonies may be subject to up to 10 years in prison and/or fines reaching up to twice the amount stolen in addition to other civil liabilities depending on the circumstances surrounding each case.
Since Texas has such harsh penalties for various levels of theft crimes anyone accused must seek out proper legal representation right away so that they have the best chance at a successful outcome. An experienced theft attorney at Thornton Criminal Defense will be able to review all evidence related to your case and help build a comprehensive defense strategy that puts you in the best possible position both during court proceedings and afterward should you be found guilty or accept a plea bargain agreement.
Attorney Brad Thornton is a top theft defense lawyer in San Antonio, Texas. Call today for a free consultation (210) 439-5627.
FORMER PROSECUTOR
San Antonio Criminal Defense Attorney Brad Thornton has spent years in court rooms fighting for justice. As a prosecutor, Brad was a leader on cases ranging from marijuana to murder from arrest to appeal. Who better to fight for your rights than someone who knows the “other side” and has tried the toughest of cases out there. Put his experience and knowledge to work for you.
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Types of Theft in Texas
Theft of Property
Theft of property is ordinarily thought of as shoplifting, but can include many other factors and circumstances. The penalties for theft in Texas vary depending on the type and value of stolen items. Penalties can range from misdemeanors to felonies, with varying degrees of fines or jail time associated with each. Generally speaking, if the value of stolen goods is less than $100 it may be considered a Class C misdemeanor (up to a $500 fine) while values over $2,500 may result in felony charges that carry up to life of prison time and up to a $10,000 fine.
Robbery
Robbery is one of the most serious forms of theft because it either involves bodily injury to the victim or the use of a deadly weapon. Prosecutors are aggressive with the enforcement of this offense and penalties can be stiff.
Unauthorized Use of a Motor vehicle
The crime of unauthorized use of a motor vehicle (UUMV) is serious and is punishable by jail time, fines, or both. It occurs when someone takes or uses another’s vehicle without permission. This offense is typically a state jail felony and carries with it potential penalties of between 180 days up to two years in jail, along with up to a $10,000 fine.
The seriousness of the punishment depends upon several factors including: the circumstances surrounding the incident; previous criminal history; if any property was damaged or stolen; whether other individuals were injured or killed as a result; age of offender; and more.
Punishment Ranges
| Level of Offense | Potential Incarceration | Potential Fine |
| First-degree Felony | 5 - 99 years in prison | Up to $10,000 |
| Second-degree Felony | 2 - 20 years in prison | Up to $10,000 |
| Third-degree Felony | 2 - 10 years in prison | Up to $10,000 |
| State Jail Felony | 180 days - 2 years in jail | Up to $10,000 |
| Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year in jail | Up to $4,000 |
| Class B Misdemeanor | Up to 180 days in jail | Up to $2,000 |
Defenses to Theft Crimes in Texas
In San Antonio, Texas, one of the most common defenses to a charge of theft is that the defendant did not have the requisite intent to commit the act. In other words, they must show that they did not intend to permanently deprive another person or entity of their property. To do this successfully, defendants can provide evidence that could establish a lack of knowledge regarding ownership of the item or its value.
The defense of ‘necessity’ may also be used in certain cases where it can be shown that stealing was necessary for survival and/or safety during an emergency situation. Likewise, if a person accused of theft had been tricked into taking something without knowing it was stolen, they may be able to argue that they had no knowledge of the item’s illegal status.
Finally, in some cases, a defendant can assert the defense of ‘entrapment’. This occurs when law enforcement officials lure someone into committing a crime or use coercion to induce them to do so. Entrapment can only be used as a defense if it is proven that the person would not have committed the act without being pushed by authorities.
Though these are some of the potential legal defenses for theft in Texas, defendants should understand that each case is unique and must be evaluated carefully before any conclusions can be drawn. Ultimately, criminal defense attorneys are the best source of advice and counsel to ensure that individuals accused of theft have their rights protected throughout the legal process.
Contact Our San Antonio Theft Lawyers Today
In some cases, it may be possible to negotiate a plea bargain or have the charges reduced so that you can avoid jail time or get lighter penalties. A San Antonio criminal defense attorney at Thornton Criminal Defense will work hard on your behalf to achieve these results if at all possible. In addition, we can apply for alternative sentencing programs that may be available for first-time offenders which could help minimize potential penalties you may face.
If your case does go to trial, Thornton Criminal Defense is prepared with knowledgeable legal research strategies and cross-examination techniques which we utilize to challenge the evidence against you and build a strong defense argument on your behalf.
No matter what type of Texas theft crime charge you are facing, our San Antonio theft lawyer is here for you every step of the way. Contact us today for a free consultation where we can discuss your case and inform you about what legal options are available for you so that together we can move forward towards the best outcome possible in your case!
Attorney Brad Thornton is one of the best theft defense attorneys in San Antonio, Texas. Call today for a free consultation (210) 439-5627.
