Houston Shoplifting Attorneys
Houston Theft Crime Lawyers James G. Sullivan and Associates represent
clients in criminal and juvenile courts on misdemeanor and felony theft
offenses in Houston and the
surrounding counties. Theft of any amount is a very serious crime. It
is a crime of moral turpitude (dishonesty) and a conviction for theft
can negatively affect you for the rest of your life. You really cannot
afford a conviction for theft on your record. Each year, hundreds of
people contact Sullivan in order to get their theft
convictions expunged from their record because they cannot get a job but
unfortunately a theft conviction cannot be expunged or sealed
(non-disclosed). Young people
especially may not know about or consider the far-reaching effects of
having a theft conviction on their record. Sullivan can
discuss with you the possible options in order to later get your theft
case record sealed or expunged.
What is Theft?
A person commits theft if he unlawfully takes another person’s
property without their consent and with the intent to deprive the owner
of the property [Texas Penal Code Sec. 31.03].
Obviously, if he did not intend to take the other person’s property,
then it is not theft. For example, in an alleged shoplifting case, if
you place a case of beer on the rack under your shopping cart, forget
about it and then walk out of the grocery store without paying for it,
you should not be held responsible. Or, if your child puts an item in
your shopping bag without your knowledge and you leave the store without
paying for it, you should not be convicted of theft.
If you have been charged with shoplifting or any other theft related
crime, you need a Houston theft crime attorney to represent you. You
may face serious consequences if you have been arrested for theft in
Houston or the surrounding area. Your penalties will vary depending on
the value of what you allegedly stole and other factors. Theft crimes
include shoplifting, hot checks, fraud, embezzlement and identity
theft. Theft crime can range from class C misdemeanor (such as a
traffic violation level offense) to 1st degree felony. Burglary of a
motor vehicle is a class A misdemeanor. Auto theft is usually charged
as a felony offense unless the value of the motor vehicle stolen is less
than $1,500. Other felony theft related crimes include credit card
abuse (state jail felony), burglary of a building (state jail felony)
and burglary of a habitation (2nd degree felony).
Houston criminal lawyer James Sullivan will discuss with you the
seriousness of your charge and the various effective defense strategies
that are best suited for your particular case. Before you make your
plea in court, it is important that you consult a theft crimes defense
lawyer in Houston, Texas.
Contact James G. Sullivan and Associates at (281) 546-6428 for a free confidential consultation and case
evaluation.
