Allegations of theft can damage your record forever. Stand strong against the charges.
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Houston Theft Lawyer
Facing theft charges in Houston can be overwhelming, especially given the city’s property crime statistics. With areas like Downtown, Uptown, Meyerland, and Westheimer reporting high theft rates, the risk is real. A conviction can have long-term consequences, affecting your freedom, career, and reputation. At Juan L. Guerra, Jr. & Associates, our Houston theft defense lawyers understand the local legal landscape and the nuances of property crime cases. We work aggressively to challenge evidence, protect your rights, and pursue the best possible outcome. Acting quickly can make all the difference in securing your future.
What To Do After a Theft Charge in Houston?
Being charged with theft in Houston is serious and requires quick, strategic action to protect your future:
- Contact a Lawyer
Speak with an experienced Houston theft attorney immediately to understand your options and start building a defense.
- Do Not Speak to Law Enforcement Without Counsel
Anything you say may be used against you. Let your lawyer handle all communication with the police or investigators.
- Preserve Evidence
Save receipts, messages, surveillance footage, or any other records that could help support your defense.
- Understand Your Charges
Learn the exact nature of your theft charge and the potential penalties under Texas law.
- Follow Legal Advice
Attend all court dates, comply with bail terms, and carefully follow your attorney’s guidance throughout the process.
When Theft Becomes a Federal vs. State Offense
Most theft charges in Houston are prosecuted at the state level, but certain circumstances can escalate them to federal crimes. The distinction often depends on the type of property involved and whether the crime crosses state boundaries.
- State Theft Charges
In Texas, theft usually involves taking property from individuals, vehicles, or businesses. Penalties vary based on the value of the stolen property and whether aggravating factors, such as the use of force, are present.
- Federal Theft Charges
Theft becomes a federal offense when it involves federal property—like a post office, courthouse, or military base—or when stolen goods are moved across state lines. Federal prosecutors pursue tougher penalties, often with longer prison sentences.
Types of Theft Charges We Defend in Houston
At Juan L. Guerra, Jr. & Associates, we understand that every theft case is unique. From misdemeanor shoplifting to complex financial theft or organized property crimes, our Houston attorneys bring the experience, strategy, and resources necessary to defend your rights. The most common theft-related charges we handle include:
- Theft of Property – Taking someone else’s property without consent, including shoplifting, embezzlement, theft from vehicles, or workplace theft. We carefully investigate evidence, intent, and records to build a strong defense.
- Robbery – Taking property directly from a person using force, intimidation, or threats. These cases carry harsher penalties, and we fight aggressively to protect clients from severe consequences.
- Organized Retail Theft – Coordinated thefts from stores, warehouses, or distribution centers. Prosecutors often pursue these cases as serious felonies, and we work to expose weak evidence and procedural errors.
- Auto Theft & Vehicle Crimes – Many auto theft charges stem from misunderstandings, mistaken identity, or paperwork issues. We dig deep to protect your driving record and your future.
- Shoplifting Accusations – Retail theft cases often rely on video footage or witness testimony that may be unreliable. We challenge this evidence to ensure a fair outcome.
- Theft by Check / Fraudulent Transactions – Writing bad checks or accusations of financial fraud can result in felony charges. We review financial records, intent, and evidence to defend your case.
- Insurance-Related Theft Disputes – When theft allegations arise from insurance claims, our attorneys step in to manage the dispute while protecting you from criminal liability.
- Aggravated Theft – Cases involving weapons, bodily harm, or high-value property result in enhanced penalties. We craft strategies to reduce charges and safeguard your future.
Understanding Theft Charges and Penalties in Houston, Texas
Under Texas law, theft is a serious offense defined in Texas Penal Code §31.03 as unlawfully taking property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner. Penalties depend largely on the value of the property, but can escalate quickly from minor misdemeanors to major felonies. Even a first-time theft conviction can leave a lasting mark on your record, impacting your freedom and future. Working with an experienced Houston theft attorney is critical to protect your rights.
- Theft Value Matters – Penalties are tied to property value. Theft under $2,500 may still result in fines, probation, or jail time, while theft over that threshold often leads to felony charges and prison sentences.
- Felony Theft – High-value theft, repeat offenses, or theft involving certain property types (like firearms, livestock, or metals) can be prosecuted as felonies with severe consequences.
- Aggravating Factors – Using deception, exploiting trust, or targeting vulnerable victims can enhance penalties and increase sentencing severity.
- Collateral Consequences – A theft conviction can damage employment opportunities, professional licenses, housing eligibility, loan applications, and even immigration status.
- Legal Guidance Essential – A Houston theft lawyer can challenge weak evidence, dispute intent, and negotiate to reduce or dismiss charges, helping you avoid lifelong consequences.
Deadline for Filing Theft Cases in Houston
In Texas, the statute of limitations for theft offenses depends on the severity of the charge, as outlined in the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, Article 12.01. Filing or being prosecuted within these timelines is essential to protect your legal rights:
- Misdemeanor Theft
Two years from the date of the offense.
- Felony Theft
Three years from the date of the offense.
- Aggravated or High-Value Theft
Certain first-degree felony theft cases may have no statute of limitations, allowing prosecution at any time.
What to Expect After a Theft Arrest in Houston?
Being arrested for theft in Houston can be overwhelming, but understanding the process helps you act quickly to protect your rights:
- Arrest and Field Investigation
Law enforcement may question you, gather evidence, or document the scene.
- Booking Process
You’ll be fingerprinted, photographed, and your personal information recorded.
- Arraignment
Charges are formally read, and bail or bond may be set for release before trial.
- Evidence Review
A Houston theft lawyer can challenge unlawful searches, mishandled evidence, or chain-of-custody issues.
- Constitutional Protections
Your attorney can raise procedural errors or violations to safeguard your rights and build a strong defense.
Frequently Asked Questions
You need a theft defense lawyer with experience in fraud and theft crimes. They can defend against charges, negotiate with prosecutors, and protect your rights if you’re accused of identity theft in Houston.
Yes, under certain circumstances. If charges are dismissed, or you’re acquitted, you may be eligible to have the record expunged. However, convictions for identity theft usually cannot be expunged. An attorney can guide you through record-sealing or expunction options.
Penalties vary depending on the number of items of identifying information involved. They can range from state jail felonies (180 days–2 years in state jail) to first-degree felonies (5–99 years in prison) if large-scale theft is proven. Fines can also reach up to $10,000.
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JLG Law and Associates will contact you for a Free Legal Consultation
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Consult an Experienced Theft Lawyer in Houston
Being charged with theft in Houston can have serious legal and personal consequences, including fines, probation, or jail time, as well as a lasting impact on your record and reputation. Without skilled legal representation, you risk facing harsher penalties and a compromised defense. At Juan L. Guerra, Jr. & Associates, we carefully review the circumstances of your case, examine evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong defense to protect your rights.
We offer a free, confidential consultation to assess your theft case and explain your legal options. Whether it’s a first-time offense or a more serious charge, we develop a strategy tailored to your situation. From negotiating reduced charges to representing you in court, our goal is to defend your freedom, minimize penalties, and provide a dedicated Houston theft defense attorney to guide you through every step of the process.
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Call or fill out our online form today to get a free and confidential consultation. At Juan L. Guerra, Jr. & Associates, every client is treated like family—and every case is handled with fierce dedication.
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