Felony Theft Over $1,500
Our Houston Felony Theft Attorney Can Defend Your Rights
Theft of property that is valued on the fair market at a price of $1,500 is considered a felony in Texas. Being charged with theft can carry consequences that may change your life. Gaining employment and passing background checks are automatically more difficult if you have been convicted of felony theft.
Additionally, if you are being charged with multiple thefts or have prior convictions, the charges may be added together and you may face more severe consequences. Here are the sentences you may face if you are accused of a felony theft charge in Texas:
- State jail felony – If the theft amounts to between $1,500 and $20,000 it is considered a state jail felony. You may face as much as 2 years of imprisonment or up to $10,000 in fines.
- 3rd-degree felony – This includes theft amounts of $20,000–$100,000 and is punishable by up to $10,000 in fines and up to 10 years in prison.
- 2nd-degree felony – You may face a 2nd-degree felony if the amount stolen is equal to $100,000–$200,000 and you could face $10,000 in fines and up to 20 years in prison.
- 1st-degree felony – The most severe felony theft charge is reserved for stolen amounts over $200,000 and is punishable by up to a $10,000 fine and a life sentence in prison.
Theft cases often involve more than just the isolated theft offense. In these cases, you may face more rigorous punishment. You may also face alternative sentencing if you have prior convictions. Either way, Texas takes felony theft charges very seriously.
Samuel M. Gardner Attorney at Law is a dedicated criminal defense attorney serving Houston. Call his office today at (713) 448-0303 to schedule a free consultation.
Important Facts About Texas Felony Theft
Under felony law in Texas, it is also important to note that firearms and certain other items are automatically considered felony theft cases. You may also face a civil action by the plaintiff that could leave you owing hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Felony theft may include identity theft, employee theft, fraud, shoplifting, auto theft, embezzlement, knowingly receiving stolen goods, and more. In addition to jail time and fines, if convicted, you may face community service and strict probation stipulations before you will be able to live freely again.
The strict sentencing is why it is imperative to secure legal counsel as soon as you are aware of the charges. Even if a dismissal cannot be granted, your attorney will provide integral services in ensuring that your rights are protected and that your sentencing is reduced as much as possible.
Seeking Legal Counsel
When charged with felony theft You will need the advice and direction of someone who is well versed in the Texas laws. In many cases, small pieces of evidence or circumstances may change the outcome or aspects of the case and lead to reduced sentencing or dismissed charges.
If you have been wrongfully charged with felony theft in the Houston area, contact Samuel Gardner. Securing the representation of legal counsel as soon as possible ensures that your case has a reduced chance of being altered or twisted by prosecution investigators. Samuel Gardner has a high success rate for gaining the best possible outcomes for his clients who face theft charges.
Contact his firm online today or by phone at (713) 448-0303 for a FREE initial consultation with a Houston felony theft lawyer.