Sugar Land Theft Lawyer

Sugar Land Theft Attorney

If you or someone you know has been accused of theft in Fort Bend County, the effects can impact your finances, opportunities for employment, criminal record and freedom. To keep yourself safe, working with a Sugar Land theft lawyer who knows Texas theft laws, how prosecutors construct their cases and what is needed to effectively contest evidence can be a crucial difference-maker.

At Greco Neyland, PC, our team of defense attorneys works with individuals who have been charged with every level of theft, ranging from misdemeanors to extreme felonies, across the entire Sugar Land area.

An Understanding: Texas Theft Charges

According to Texas Penal Code §31.03, theft is viewed as illegally taking the property of somebody else with the intent of depriving the owner of it. While the law appears to be straightforward enough, countless cases have misidentifications, misunderstandings or weak evidence. Even a low-level, minor accusation can quickly grow if specific details are only alleged, such as past convictions or the monetary value of the stolen property.

Because of that, Texas separates theft charges mainly by the value of the involved property, but other details, like the kind of property taken or the accused’s use of deception, can enhance the seriousness.

Hire a Theft Lawyer: Protect Your Freedom

Deciding to hire a theft lawyer gives you an advocate who understands how to contest the prosecutor’s story, silence inadequate evidence, examine surveillance footage, study statements from witnesses and work with the prosecution. Greco Neyland, PC, delivers thoughtful, tactical defense strategies personalized to your case’s specific details and circumstances.

Common Cases: What We Handle

In 2024, the Sugar Land Police Department reported a total of 2,114 crimes against property. Of those, 878 were cases of theft, 540 were shoplifting and over 100 were auto theft. Because of these figures, our team of Sugar Land defense attorneys represents clients and defends them from a wide variety of theft accusations, such as:

• Shoplifting: Often charged as a misdemeanor, it can be elevated if the property is valued more than originally alleged.
• Employee theft: These allegations involve the misuse or appropriation of employer funds or property.
• Theft by deception: These cover situations of false statements, alleged fraudulent behavior or misrepresentation.
• Felony theft: This regards high-value theft, theft from the elderly or theft of specific types of property, such as firearms.
• Theft of services: These charges come to fruition in the event of allegedly failing to pay for a service, lodging, professional labor or utilities.

Penalties in Texas: Theft

Texas attaches penalties for theft mainly to the value of the property that was allegedly stolen. They are structured as follows:

• Class C misdemeanor: Under $100
• Class B misdemeanor: $100–$749
• Class A misdemeanor: $750–$2,499
• State jail felony: $2,500–$29,999
• Third-degree felony: $30,000–$149,999
• Second-degree felony: $150,000–$299,999
• First-degree felony: $300,000 or more

Being convicted can lead to time in either jail or prison, hefty fines, payments of restitution, community supervision and other lasting impacts on licensing and employment. Oftentimes, cases like these are conducted at the Sugar Land Municipal Court, located at 1200 Highway 6 S. Sugar Land, TX 77478

Sugar Land Theft Charges: Defense Tactics

Proper defense tactics depend on a case’s specifics. Our firm meticulously examines every angle of every case, every time, to tailor an effective strategy. Common tactics can include:

• Proving lack of intent
• Establishing an instance of mistaken identity
• Pointing out insufficient or weak evidence
• Establishing a claim or right or rightful ownership
• Showcasing violations of constitutional rights

Arrested for Theft in Sugar Land: The Immediate Aftermath

If you or someone you know has been arrested for theft in Sugar Land, you could face:

• Being processed and booked
• Release conditions or bond
• A required court date in Fort Bend County
• Possible conditions and orders for no contact

It is crucial to avoid speaking with law enforcement without an attorney present. Do not discuss the situation with others and contact a Sugar Land criminal defense attorney as quickly as possible. Timely action can determine whether charges grow or are lessened.

FAQs About Sugar Land, TX Theft Laws

How Do You Get Theft Charges Dropped in Texas?

In Texas, getting theft charges dropped may require weak evidence, unreliable identification, the inability to prove the true worth of the alleged stolen property or the violation of constitutional rights. In some instances, alternative resolutions or diversion programs can be available, depending on the presence of a prior record or not, as well as the specific accusations. An experienced defense attorney examines every option and fights for a favorable outcome.

How Much Can You Steal in Texas Before It’s a Felony?

In Texas, theft is considered a state jail felony when the value of the involved property is $2,500 or more. At the same time, certain pieces of property, like firearms, are instantly felonies regardless of the actual value. Previous convictions of theft can also enhance a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on the situation. A skilled Sugar Land theft attorney can evaluate your case and clarify your available options.

What Is the Minimum Sentence for Theft in Sugar Land?

A Class C misdemeanor, which covers property that is worth less than $100, carries the typical minimum penalty of a fine. For charges that are more severe, like felony theft, sentences can also include confinement. The exact punishment varies depending on the stolen property’s value, the accused’s circumstances and a prior record.

Can You Be Convicted of Theft Without Evidence in Sugar Land?

To be convicted of theft in Sugar Land, the prosecutors have to prove the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. If they are unable to establish value, intent, ownership or your specific involvement, a conviction is less than likely. For the most part, cases that are primarily based on assumptions, inconsistent witnesses or weak evidence may fall short of the required legal standard. A criminal defense attorney can contest inconsistencies in the state’s case.

Find a Sugar Land Theft Lawyer: Greco Neyland, PC

If you are in Sugar Land or the neighboring areas and facing theft charges, Greco Neyland, PC, is here and ready to keep your rights safe while defending your future. Contact our team today to schedule your free consultation and get the representation your case and future need.