Kingwood Abogado de Robo

Kingwood Theft Attorney

Facing a theft accusation in Kingwood can have serious consequences on your reputation, job, and future. Whether you have been accused of a misdemeanor shoplifting offense or a felony theft charge involving larger sums of property or money, it is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible. The Kingwood theft lawyer at Greco Neyland, P.C. are familiar with how Texas prosecutors approach these cases and know how to effectively counter their strategies.

We meticulously review the evidence, alleged intent, and value of the property in question to determine if there are holes in the prosecution’s accusations. From negotiating for lesser charges to fighting for total dismissals, our dedicated legal team is prepared to work diligently on your behalf.

Hire a Theft Lawyer

Theft defense at Greco Neyland, P.C. is led by seasoned criminal attorneys with years of courtroom experience across Harris County. Our lawyers have handled thousands of theft and property crime cases, including those prosecuted in Kingwood-area courts.

With backgrounds as former prosecutors, we know how to anticipate the state’s strategy and craft effective defenses. Our client-focused approach ensures transparent communication, personalized strategy, and unwavering advocacy from the moment you hire us through every stage of your case.

Texas Theft Laws and Classifications

In Kingwood and throughout the state of Texas, theft is defined by Texas Penal Code §31.03. It’s a crime that is typically classified as a Class C, B, or A misdemeanor, or as a felony. For example, if the property is valued at less than $100, the offense is a Class C misdemeanor. If the value is between $2,500 and $30,000, the offense is a state-jail felony.

According to the Texas Department of Public Safety’s 2023 Crime in Texas report, there were 1,549.5 cases of larceny-theft per 100,000 residents statewide, excluding motor vehicle theft.  As a result, prosecutors in Harris County take an aggressive approach to sentencing, meaning your defense strategy needs to be strong and start as early as day one.

Intent, Mistaken Identity, and Wrongful Accusations

In theft crimes, prosecutors need to demonstrate intent, which means you purposely planned to take someone else’s property unlawfully. It’s possible to be accused of theft through honest mistakes, such as mistaken identity, genuine confusion, or clerical error.

A Kingwood theft lawyer can thoroughly investigate the evidence, such as security footage, point-of-sale records, time-stamps on receipts, and witness statements, in order to establish reasonable doubt or another plausible explanation.

By identifying weaknesses or oversights in the prosecution’s timeline or methods of operation, your attorney may also be able to make a case that no criminal intent was present, or that evidence was illegally gathered or otherwise mishandled, which can help in dismissing charges or having them reduced.

Consequences of a Theft Conviction in Kingwood

A conviction for theft in Kingwood can result in serious and long-lasting consequences in Harris County courts and beyond. For instance, in addition to the statutory punishment, a Delito menor de clase A ($750–$2,499 in property value) can lead to up to one year in county jail and up to $4,000 in fines. A state-jail felony ($2,500 to $30,000 in property value) conviction can lead to 180 days to two years’ confinement in a state jail and up to $10,000 in fines.

In addition to jail or prison, theft convictions can cause you to lose out on jobs, be denied housing, lose professional licenses, and become subject to deportation if you are not a U.S. citizen. In Harris County courts, even misdemeanor theft records will appear in background checks and can affect credit applications, job prospects, and reputation in the greater Houston metro area.

FAQs About Kingwood, TX Theft Laws

Can Theft Charges Be Dismissed in Texas?

Yes, theft charges in Texas can sometimes be dismissed, depending on the facts. Dismissals are also possible when there is a lack of evidence, evidence of mistaken identity, or the absence of criminal intent.

A Kingwood theft lawyer can work with prosecutors, present mitigating factors, or pursue diversion programs for eligible first-time offenders. Each criminal case presents unique challenges that require the experience and knowledge of an attorney to maximize your chances of avoiding a conviction.

Can I Be Charged With Theft If I Forgot to Pay for Something in Texas?

In Texas, it is possible to be charged with theft even if you did not mean to steal anything. If you forget to pay for an item or unintentionally walk out of a store with unpaid merchandise, the State must still show that you intentionally committed theft.

An experienced Kingwood theft lawyer knows how to subpoena receipts, witness testimonies, or video surveillance to prove that the alleged criminal behavior was an accident.

What Is the Difference Between Theft, Burglary, and Robbery in Texas?

Theft, burglary, and robbery charges sound similar, but they are different crimes with separate elements that must be proven in court. Theft is taking someone else’s property without permission, burglary involves entering a building with the intent to commit a theft or another offense, and robbery includes the additional factor of using force or threats. Each offense has different penalties under Texas law.

Are There Alternatives to Jail for First-Time Theft Offenders in Kingwood?

Yes, first-time offenders in Kingwood and Harris County have options that may include a pretrial diversion program or deferred adjudication. These programs can result in a defendant completing community service, restitution, and/or classes in lieu of jail time. In some cases, charges are dismissed or sealed if completed.

A seasoned Kingwood theft attorney can bargain for eligibility and work with you to seek out these second-chance programs to keep your record and future clear.

Contact a Kingwood Theft Lawyer You Can Trust – Greco Neyland, P.C.

A theft charge in Kingwood can seriously impact your future, but skilled legal defense can make all the difference. The attorneys at Greco Neyland, P.C. are ready to protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and fight for the optimal outcome. Schedule a confidential consultation today and hire a theft lawyer to start building your defense.