San Antonio Shoplifting Attorney
Facing shoplifting charges in Texas?
Theft in Texas involves taking property with the intention of depriving the owner of the property. In terms of shoplifting, this involves depriving store owners of their merchandise or the adequate payment for their merchandise. Many assume shoplifting solely involves leaving the store with an item without paying for it. That is indeed one form of shoplifting, but there are many other acts that could also result in shoplifting charges. Any action that involves unlawfully taking property without the consent of the owner can lead to an arrest for shoplifting. If you are facing these charges, you need to team up with a theft crime lawyer in San Antonio for help. The Law Office of John J. Fox has years of experience in criminal defense and can assist you in defending against these charges.
What constitutes 'shoplifting' in Texas?
The actions that can lead to shoplifting charges involve depriving the owner of the property. Examples of shoplifting offenses include:
- Leaving the store with items that you have not paid for
- Altering the price tag on items in order to avoid paying the full price for the item
- Changing the container of an item in an attempt to pay a different price
- Performing any act that would cause the cash register to charge you less than the price of the merchandise
- Writing a bad check for merchandise
If you have questions about your shoplifting charge and whether or not it indeed constitutes shoplifting, contact our firm. We would be happy to discuss your case and the possible defenses to your charges.
Penalties for Shoplifting in San Antonio, TX
The consequences that follow shoplifting offenses vary depending on the value of the merchandise involved. Generally, shoplifting is charged as a misdemeanor in Texas unless the property has a high value, above $1,500. It is important to note that if more than one item is involved in the crime, the value of the items combined will determine the penalties. So even if you took items that are each worth $500, taking three of them could result in a felony offense. The penalties for shoplifting include:
Property Valued Under $50:
- Charged as a Class C Misdemeanor
- $500 fine
Property Valued Between $50 and $499:
- Charged as a Class B Misdemeanor
- Jail time of up to 180 days
- Up to $2,000 in fines
Property Valued Between $500 and $1,499:
- Charged as a Class A Misdemeanor
- Jail time of up to one year
- Up to $4,000 in fines
Property Valued Between $1,500 and $19,999:
- Charged as a State Jail Felony
- Jail time of up to two years
- Up to $10,000 in fines
Property Valued Between $20,000 and $100,000:
- Charged as a Third Degree Felony
- Jail time between two and 10 years
- Up to $10,000 in fines
Property Valued between $100,000 and $200,000:
- Charged as a Second Degree Felony
- Jail time between two and 20 years
- Up to $10,000 in fines
Property Valued Above $200,000:
- Charged as a First Degree Felony
- Jail time between five and 99 years
- Up to $10,000 in fines
The Law Office of John J. Fox Can Help in Your Shoplifting Case
When facing shoplifting charges, you need to have a hard-hitting defense by your side to help you fight to avoid serious penalties. The Law Office of John J. Fox has handled countless theft crime cases over the years and we are prepared to help. Do not hesitate to schedule a free case evaluation with our firm to see how we can assist you. Contact a San Antonio criminal defense lawyer from our firm today for the help you need!