Theft

What a theft charge means

In Texas, theft generally means taking property without the owner's consent, intending to keep it from them. "Property" can be money, merchandise, services or information. Theft charges include:

• Shoplifting
• Theft from an employer, sometimes called embezzlement
• Theft by check or by deception
• Receiving or selling stolen property
• Identity theft, which means using someone else's personal information without permission

How serious a theft charge is usually depends on the value of what was taken, and on your history. A theft can be a minor misdemeanor or a serious felony.

What may be at stake

Depending on the charge and your history, a theft case may affect:

• Your freedom, through jail or prison time or probation
• Paying money back (restitution) and court costs
• Your job and future job applications, because many employers view theft convictions as a question of honesty
• A professional license, security clearance, or immigration status

Even a low-level theft can follow you for years. It is worth taking seriously from the start.

How a Tarrant County theft case usually moves

Every case is different, and the steps and timing can vary. We also handle cases in the counties around Tarrant County; the general steps are similar, but each county's courts have their own schedules and practices. In general:

1. Arrest or summons. Some people are arrested; others get a notice to appear. If arrested, a judge (magistrate) sets bond.
2. Charging. Misdemeanors go to a county criminal court. For a felony, a grand jury decides whether to formally charge (indict) the case.
3. Evidence review. Your attorney reviews store video, receipts, bank or business records, and statements.
4. Resolution. The case may be dismissed, reduced, moved to a program, resolved by agreement, or go to trial. You decide whether to accept an offer or go to trial.

How our attorneys help

• We look at the value the State claims, because it can change the level of the charge.
• We check whether there was really intent to steal, or a misunderstanding, a dispute over ownership, or a mistake.
• We review the records and video closely, especially in business and employer cases.
• We talk with you about options that may protect your record, such as a pretrial program, and about clearing your record later.