San Marcos Theft Defense Attorney
A theft charge can have consequences that reach far beyond a fine or court date. A conviction may affect your emplyment, professional opportunities, reputation, and criminal record. If you have been arrested, cited, or accused of theft in San Marcos or Hays County, getting experienced legal advice early can make a difference.
David S. Watts has practiced criminal defense for more than 35 years, representing clients facing criminal charges in San Marcos and throughout Hays County. He understands the local courts, the criminal justice process, and the importance of carefully examining the facts behind every accusation.
Charged with theft? Contact our office to schedule a free consultation.
Theft Charges in Texas
Under Texas law, theft generally involves unlawfully taking property with the intent to deprive the owner of it. However, theft cases can involve many different circumstances, and the seriousness of the charge often depends on the value and type of property involved.
Theft-related charges may include:
- Shoplifting
- Theft of property
- Theft of services
- Employee theft
- Receiving or possession stolen property
- Unauthorized use of property
- Certain credit or debit card offenses
Depending on the circumstances, a theft offense may be charged as a misdemeanor or felony.
What Are the Penalties for Theft in Texas:
Texas theft penalties generally increase based on the value of the value of the property or services involved, although certain circumstances can affect how an offense is classified. Possible consequences can include:
- Fines
- Probation
- Jail or prison time
- Restitution
- A permanent criminal record
- Employment or professional consequences
Even a misdemeanor theft conviction can create problems long after the case itself is over. This is one reason it is important to understand your options before making decisions about your case.
Defending Against a Theft Charge
Being accused of theft does not mean you are guilty. Every case is different, and the prosecution must prove the required elements of the offense. A defense may involve questions about intent, ownership, identification, consent, the value of the property, or the circumstances surrounding the accusation.
David S. Watts reviews the the evidence and circumstances of each case individually rather than assuming every theft charge should be handled the same way. The goal is simple: understand exactly what happened, identify the waknesses in the State's case, and determine the best available path forward.
Theft Charges Involving Texas State Students
A theft or shoplifting charge can be especially concerning for a college student. Texas State University students may be worried about how an arrest or criminal charge could affect school, employment, scholarships, housing, or future opportunities. Parents may also have questions about what happens next and how serious the situation actually is.
Our office represents Texas State students facing theft and other criminal charges in San Marcos and can help students and their families understand both the charge and the criminal court process.
Visit our Texas State Students & Parents page for more information.
Local Criminal Defense Experience Matters
When your case is in Hays County, having an attorney who knows the local criminal justice system matters. David S. Watts has spent more than 35 years practicing criminal defense and representing people accused of crimes in San Marcos and Hays County. Criminal defese is not one part of a larger general practice. It is the focus of his work.
Clients receive straightforward answers about their case, their options, and what they can expect as the case moves forward.
Talk to a San Marcos Theft Defense Attorney
If you have been charged with theft, shoplifting, or another theft-related offense in San marcos or Hays County, don't assume that a citation or misdemeanor charge isn't serious. The earlier you understand what you're facing, the better prepared you can be to make decisions about your case.
Contact David S. Watts, Attorney at Law, to schedule a free consultation about your theft charge.
Serving clients in San Marcos, Buda, Kyle, Wimberley, Dripping Springs and other communities throughout Hays County.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Theft Charges in Texas
What happens if I'm charged with shoplifting in Hays County?
Shoplifing is prosecuted as theft under Texas law. The level of the charge generally depends on teh value of the property involved and other circumstances. Even a misdemeanor theft charge can have consequences beyond fines or jail, including a criminal record and possible effects on employment or future opportunities. If you have been accused of shoplifting in San Marcos or Hays County, speak with a criminal defense attorney before making decisionsabout your case.
Can a theft charge be dismissed in Texas?
Possibly. Whether a theft charge can be dismissed depends on the facts of the case, the available evidence, your criminal history, and other circumstances. An attorney can review issues such as intent, ownership, witness statements, surveillance footage, and whether the State has enough evidence to prove the charge.
What are the different levels of theft charges in Texas?
Texas theft offenses can range from a Class C misdemeanor to a felony. The classicfication generally depends on the value of the property can affect the level of the charge. Under current Texas law, theft of property valued at less than $100 generally a Class C misdemeanor, $100 to less than $750 is generally a Class B misdemeanor, and $750 to less than $2,500 is generally a Class A misdemeanor. Higher values can result in felony charges
Will a theft charge stay on my criminal record in Texas?
An arrest or theft charge can create a criminal record even if the case does not ultimately result in a conviction. Depending on how the case is resolved and whether you meet Texas eligibility requirements, options such as an expunction or order of nondisclosure may be available. An attorney can explain what may apply in your specific situation.
What should I do if I'm accused of theft in San Marcos or Hays County?
Avioid discussing the details of teh accusation with other people or posting about it on social media. You should also be cautious about making statements to law enforcement before speaking with an attorney. A San Marcos criminal defense attorney can review the accusation, explain the charges and help you understand your options before you make important decisions about your case.
What happens if a Texas State student is charged with theft?
A theft charge can be especially concerning for a college student who is worried about how it could affect school, employment, scholarships, or gurture opportunities. Texas State students accused of theft in San Marcos may face a criminal case as well as other potential consequences. David S. Watts represents Texas State students facing theft and other criminal charges in San Marcos and can help students and their parents understand the charge, the court process, and what options may be available.
Take the First Step Toward Protecting Your Future
If you've been charged with theft or any other criminal offense in San Marcos, TX, you don't have to face the legal system alone. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation with a top-rated theft defense attorney in San Marcos. Call us at 512-395-8538 or visit our Contact Us page to get started.