Shoplifting: Penalties and Defense
Typically, shoplifting in Texas is classified as a misdemeanor. Even when charged with a minor crime, however, you may face costly fines, lengthy community service obligations, and even a jail sentence depending on the value of what was stolen. Any crime you commit goes on your criminal record, which can further complicate your life and hurt your chances of keeping your job or finding a new one.
A shoplifting charge can lead to a number of serious short-term and long-term consequences. If you have been arrested for shoplifting, a criminal defense lawyer can help you defend your case in a court of law. Contact experienced Austin shoplifting defense attorney Ian Inglis today at 512-472-1950.
Shoplifting Penalties
The severity of the penalties you face for shoplifting depends on what tools were used in the theft, what was stolen, and the value of what was stolen. The penalties for shoplifting based on the value of the goods stolen are broken down as follows:
- Class C Misdemeanor: Theft of less than $50. Penalty: Fines up to $500.
- Class B Misdemeanor: Theft of $50 to $500. Penalty: Fines up to $2,000 and/or up to 180 days in jail.
- Class A Misdemeanor: Theft of $500-$1,500. Penalty: Fines up to $4,000 and/or up to 1 year in jail.
- Felony: Theft of $1,500 or more. Penalty: Fines up to $10,000 and/or a prison sentence between 180 days to life in prison.
If you have committed theft in the past, the penalties you face for shoplifting may be increased. If you are caught stealing a gun, you will automatically be charged with a felony. Any evidence of using tools to break in to a building to shoplift could also elevate the penalties against you.
Shoplifting: Preparing Your Defense
A good criminal defense lawyer will look at all of the evidence against you and help you create your defense. They will examine each detail of your case for any weaknesses in the evidence, such as false identification by a witness or inability to prove intent to steal.
An experienced shoplifting defense lawyer can help you defend your rights against aggressive prosecution. Make sure you consult a criminal defense attorney and learn all of the defense options available to you.
Contact Us
For aggressive, experienced legal representation for shoplifting charges, don't hesitate to contact Austin criminal attorney Ian Inglis at 512-472-1950.
The Ian Inglis web site is designed to provide educational information only and is not intended to offer legal advice. Information contained in this website is not intended to create an attorney-client relationship, nor does it constitute legal advice to any person reviewing such information. No electronic communication with Ian Inglis on its own will generate an attorney-client relationship, nor will it be considered an attorney-client privileged communication.