Theft Defense Attorney in Plano

Understanding Theft Laws in Texas

The core definition of theft in Texas is the unlawful appropriation of property with the intent to deprive the owner of that property.

"Unlawful" appropriation occurs when property is taken without the owner's "effective consent." In Plano, this can range from a simple retail theft at a local shopping center to complex white-collar embezzlement allegations. The severity of the charge is primarily driven by the fair market value of the property involved.

Texas utilizes a tiered system for penalties:

• Class C Misdemeanor: Property value under $100.
• Class B Misdemeanor: Property value between $100 and $750.
• Class A Misdemeanor: Property value between $750 and $2,500.
• State Jail Felony: Property value between $2,500 and $30,000.
• Third-Degree Felony: Property value between $30,000 and $150,000.

As a Plano theft crimes lawyer will explain, certain factors can "enhance" a charge regardless of value. For instance, theft from an elderly individual, theft of a firearm, or having two prior theft convictions can automatically elevate a misdemeanor to a felony, even if the item stolen was worth very little.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of Theft Convictions in Plano

A theft conviction is classified as a "crime of moral turpitude." This label is particularly damaging because it suggests a lack of honesty or integrity.

Direct Penalties

• Misdemeanors: Can result in up to one year in the Collin County jail and fines reaching $4,000.
• Felonies: Can lead to years or even decades in a Texas state prison and fines up to $10,000.

The "Moral Turpitude" Impact

The collateral consequences of a theft record in Texas are often more permanent than the jail time:

• Professional Licensing: The Texas Occupations Code allows licensing boards (for nurses, teachers, real estate agents, etc.) to deny or revoke licenses for crimes of moral turpitude. A theft conviction can effectively end a career in finance or healthcare.
• Employment Barriers: Theft is a "red flag" for nearly all employers. It signals that an applicant may not be trustworthy with company assets.
• Immigration Status: For non-citizens, a theft conviction can be grounds for deportation or may prevent naturalization, as federal authorities view these crimes very seriously.
• Housing: Many apartment complexes in Plano and the surrounding suburbs screen for property crimes, making it difficult to secure stable housing.

How Our Experience Can Help In A Theft Case

Our experience helps protect your rights from the moment a theft accusation arises. We guide clients on what to say, if anything, and ensure police and prosecutors follow the law. When possible, we pursue dismissals through restitution, negotiate favorable plea agreements, or defend cases at trial, always aiming to keep a theft charge off your record and limit long-term consequences.

Having handled theft cases from multiple perspectives, we know where weaknesses often appear. We investigate beyond police reports, reviewing video, inventory records, and witness statements for errors or inconsistencies. We also support clients outside the courtroom by preparing them for interviews, explaining bond conditions, and recommending practical steps, such as classes or counseling, that can strengthen their position as the case moves forward.

At The Zendeh Del Law Firm, PLLC, we don't just wait for the court date; we go on the offensive. Our methodology is tailored to the unique nature of property crimes:

• Leveraging Prosecution Experience: We know the "short-cuts" prosecutors take. By anticipating their strategy, we can build a counter-narrative that highlights your innocence or lack of criminal intent.
• Forensic Evaluation of Evidence: We scrutinize "grainy" surveillance footage and digital trails. If the person in the video isn't clearly you, or if the digital transaction was a technical error, we find the proof.
• Negotiation from Strength: We aren't afraid of the courtroom. This reputation allows us to negotiate more effectively with the District Attorney's office.
• Culturally Attuned Advocacy: Because we speak Spanish, we provide a comfortable environment for the Hispanic community in Plano, ensuring every client fully understands their rights and the legal strategies we employ.