Types of Theft Offenses in Texas

Shoplifting might seem like a minor offense, but under Texas law, it can carry serious criminal and civil consequences. From switching price tags to walking out with unpaid items, shoplifting is prosecuted as a form of theft, with penalties ranging from fines to years in prison—depending on the value of the merchandise and any prior convictions. In this post, we explain how shoplifting is defined, how charges are classified, what penalties you could face, and what defenses may apply. If you're being accused and searching for an experienced attorney near you, understanding your rights and the legal process is your first step toward protecting your record and your future.

In Texas, theft of property is a serious offense—and the punishment depends largely on the value of what was taken. The law sets clear penalty thresholds that determine whether the charge is a misdemeanor or a felony, with higher-value thefts carrying the risk of long prison sentences and steep fines. But even in lower-level cases, the consequences can be life-altering. In this post, we break down the penalty levels, explain how prosecutors prove theft, and explore the most effective legal defenses available. If you're under investigation or facing charges, a skilled attorney near you can make the difference between a conviction and a second chance.

In Texas, theft of services is treated just as seriously as stealing physical property. Whether it’s failing to pay for home repairs, walking out on a restaurant bill, or misusing rental equipment, the law considers it a criminal offense if someone intentionally avoids payment for services rendered. Charges are based on the value of the services and can range from misdemeanors to felonies. In this post, we explain how Texas law defines theft of services, how prosecutors build these cases, and what defenses may apply. If you're facing allegations and need a knowledgeable attorney near you, now is the time to protect your rights and your record.

While often confused, burglary and robbery are two distinct crimes under Texas law—each carrying its own legal definitions and severe penalties. Burglary involves unlawful entry with the intent to commit a felony, theft, or assault, even if no property is taken. Robbery, on the other hand, involves theft that includes violence or the threat of harm. In this post, we break down the key differences, how these offenses are prosecuted, and what penalties you could face. If you’re being investigated or charged and need a reliable attorney near you, understanding the law is the first step in mounting a strong defense.

In Texas, taking a vehicle without permission can lead to two very different criminal charges: auto theft or unauthorized use of a motor vehicle (UUMV). The key difference? It comes down to intent. Auto theft involves a plan to permanently deprive the owner of their vehicle, while UUMV covers situations where someone uses a vehicle without consent but intends to return it. Both offenses carry serious consequences—including felony charges and potential jail time. In this post, we explain the legal distinctions, penalties, and real-world examples that define these crimes. If you’ve been accused and are searching for an experienced attorney near you, it’s critical to understand what’s at stake and how to defend yourself.

In Texas, employee theft and workplace fraud are criminal offenses that can lead to serious legal consequences, including felony charges, restitution demands, and long-term damage to your reputation and career. These crimes can involve anything from stealing inventory or cash, to manipulating payroll systems, forging documents, or misusing company resources. Texas law treats these offenses as breaches of trust—and often punishes them more harshly when committed by someone in a position of responsibility. In this post, we break down how these charges are filed, what evidence prosecutors use, and the defenses available. If you're facing accusations and need a trusted attorney near you, now is the time to act before things escalate further.

Organized retail theft is a growing concern in Harris and Galveston Counties, where law enforcement agencies are cracking down on coordinated efforts to steal merchandise from businesses. This isn’t just casual shoplifting—these are planned schemes often involving multiple people, stolen goods worth thousands, and reselling operations. Under Texas Penal Code § 31.16, organized retail theft is treated as a serious felony offense, with escalating penalties based on the value of the stolen items and the complexity of the scheme. In this post, we explain how these crimes are investigated, prosecuted, and punished locally. If you’re being targeted in one of these cases, a skilled attorney near you can help protect your freedom and future.

In Texas, simply receiving or possessing stolen property—even if you didn’t steal it yourself—can still land you in serious legal trouble. Under Texas Penal Code § 31.03, it's a crime to knowingly hold, conceal, or use property that you know (or should know) was stolen. This offense is treated as theft, with penalties based on the value of the items involved and whether prior convictions exist. In this post, we break down what makes possession illegal, how prosecutors prove “knowledge,” and the defenses that might apply. If you’ve been accused and are searching for a reliable attorney near you, understanding your rights is the first step toward protecting yourself.

Cargo theft is on the rise in Texas, especially along major commercial corridors like I-10 and I-45. This high-stakes crime involves stealing goods directly from freight trucks, warehouses, or distribution centers—and it’s aggressively prosecuted under Texas Penal Code § 31.18. Often linked to organized crime, cargo theft can lead to felony charges, long prison sentences, and significant financial penalties. In this post, we explore how Texas defines cargo theft, how these cases are investigated, and what legal defenses may be available. If you’re under investigation or facing charges, now is the time to speak with a seasoned attorney near you who understands the complexities of these high-profile cases.

In Fort Bend and Brazoria County, juvenile theft charges can have serious and lasting consequences—even if the accused is under 17. Whether it’s shoplifting, stealing from a classmate, or taking items from a store or vehicle, Texas treats juvenile theft under a separate legal system, but the outcomes can still include probation, restitution, or placement in a detention facility. In this post, we explain how juvenile theft is handled in local courts, what penalties minors may face, and how early legal intervention can make a significant difference. If your child is facing charges and you need a compassionate, experienced attorney near you, this guide will help you understand your options and protect your child’s future.