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Shoplifting

Many people believe that shoplifting is a small crime with little to no consequences. The truth is a shoplifting offense can have devastating effects on your educational or professional goals. If the offense lands on your criminal record, you may be disqualified for several scholarships and financial aid. A shoplifting charge can also affect you in the workforce. It can disqualify you from many industries, making it harder to obtain employment.

For several people, getting arrested for shoplifting can be an embarrassing circumstance. Others can view them as a thief for a long period of time. There are a lot of ways a shoplifting offense can affect an individual’s record. If you have been convicted of a shoplifting offense, contact one of our experienced theft crimes attorney at The Gracia Law Firm, P.C. .

Shoplifting Lawyer in Brownsville, Texas

The Gracia Law Firm, P.C. is a dedicated Brownsville-based law firm that serves criminal defense and family law clients all throughout the state of Texas. Shoplifting offense attorney Jonathan Gracia has a reputable background representing individuals that have been involved in various theft crimes. His team of skilled lawyers do not stop at the bare minimum, but instead, tackle each case aggressively.

The Gracia Law Firm, P.C. defends shoplifting and other theft crimes that occur in Brownsville Texas and communities throughout Hidalgo County, Cameron County, and Willacy County. Call 956-504-2211 today to receive a free initial consultation or to set up an in-office appointment.

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Information Center

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What Constitutes Shoplifting? What Penalties Does It Carry?

Shoplifting falls under the category of theft described in Texas Penal Code Section 31.03. Under this law, an individual commits a “theft” when he or she unlawfully seizes goods with the intention of depriving the property owner. The Penal Code states that seizing goods or property is unlawful if it is done without the owner’s consent. It is also unlawful if the property is stolen and the individual seizes the property knowing it was stolen.

The penalties associated with a shoplifting offense are related to the value of the property in question. You may face a misdemeanor or felony charge, along with fines, incarceration, or both.

Here are guidelines to the penalties associated with shoplifting charges:

  • Class C misdemeanor: property value less than $50 – maximum fine of $500
  • Class B misdemeanor: Property value less than $50 plus prior theft conviction – maximum fine of $2,000 and/or maximum 180 days in jail
  • Class B misdemeanor: property value between $50 and $500 – maximum fine of $2,000 and/or maximum 180 days in jail
  • Class A misdemeanor: property value between $500 and $1,500 – maximum fine of $4,000 and/or maximum one year in jail
  • State jail felony: property value between $1,500 and $20,000, or firearm theft – maximum fine of $10,000 and at least 180 days in jail, not to exceed two years
  • Third degree felony: property value between $20,000 and $100,000 – maximum fine of $10,000 and at least two years in jail, not to exceed 10 years
  • Second degree felony: property value between $100,000 and $200,000 – maximum fine of $10,000 and at least two years in jail, not to exceed 20 years
  • First degree felony: property value over $200,000 – maximum fine of $10,000 and between 5 and 99 years in jail

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Possible Defenses for Theft in Brownsville, Texas

If you are being investigated for a shoplifting offense, know that you are not alone. When you choose The Gracia Law Firm, P.C. for your legal representation, our theft crime defense attorneys will do everything in their hands to help you fight against those shoplifting charges. Here are some defenses that a lawyer can utilize to prevent a theft conviction from landing on your record:

  • Mistake of fact
  • Miscalculation of the value of the item taken
  • The property was yours
  • Mistaken identity
  • Intoxication defense
  • Entrapment
  • Lack of intent

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Shoplifting Additional Resources

The National Association for Shoplifting Prevention (NASP) – The National Association for Shoplifting Prevention (NASP) is dedicated to preventing shoplifting. The organization offers education, prevention and rehabilitation programs to the community with the effort of treating a shoplifting addiction. Self-help and support services are also available to individuals. Call (800) 848-9595 if you’d like to receive counseling.

Texas Penal Code Section 31.03 – Visit Texas Penal Code Section 31.03 to read more about what is considered theft. You will be able to view information on the different types of penalties, admissible defenses, and information on other related crimes.

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Defense Lawyer for Shoplifting in Brownsville, Texas

Being detained inside of a store for theft can be stressful in the moment and detrimental to your future. We advise that you do not wait too long before contacting a shoplifting offense attorney. Time is of the essence and the faster you reach out to us at The Gracia Law Firm, P.C. , the faster we can begin working on your case.

With over a decade of experience handling criminal defense crimes, our Brownsville lawyers work hard to help you eliminate or minimize potential fines and jail time. If you are currently facing shoplifting charges, contact The Gracia Law Firm, P.C. at 956-504-2211 for a consultation free of charge. Brownsville lawyer Jonathan Gracia and his team defend clients in Hidalgo County, Cameron County, and Willacy County.

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