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Theft Crimes
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1001 Texas Avenue, Suite 1400 Houston, Texas 77002
The Law Office of Nicholas R. Westbrook

HOUSTON THEFT DEFENSE LAWYER

In recent years, law enforcement agencies have stepped up measures to combat crimes involving theft. The State has also begun seeking more jail time and higher fines, rather than reducing charges or offering probation. Texas law characterizes theft crimes as immoral, which can have a lasting impact on your criminal record.

If you are convicted of a theft crime, you may face serious jail or prison time, significant fines, restitution, community service, and a serious mark on your permanent criminal record. More importantly, you may lose your job, be denied financial aid, and have significant trouble finding future employment. The fact is, people don't like thieves. To defend yourself against a theft coviction, it is critical to hire an attorney as sono as possible.

To discuss your alleged offense in full detail and determine your best legal optoins, please contact the Law Office of Nicholas R. Westbrook at (713) 936-2174. You may also contact me directly through email or our Free Case Evaluation. I would be happy to meet with you, explain the allegations against you, and determine the best course of action in your case.

WHAT IS A THEFT CRIME?

A theft crime occurs when someone unlawfully takes another person’s property without that person’s consent. Offenses involving theft also occur when someone accepts or receives property he or she knows to be stolen. My office assists clients with the following misdemeanor and felony theft crimes:

  • Fraud
  • Forgery
  • Credit card abuse
  • Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle
  • Theft
  • Employee Theft
  • Theft of service
  • Shoplifting

THE MOST COMMON THEFT CRIMES –

In my experience, the most common theft crimes are Employee Theft and Shoplifting.

Employee Theft – As a Houston criminal defense attorney, I've noticed that many theft cases involve defendants stealilng from their employers. Unfortunately, the Harris County DA's Office has a “policy” against this offense. According to the policy, the State will typically offer jail time – even for a first time offense – or an extensive straight probation (which leads to a conviction). These plea bargains ultimately lead to convictions and the stigma of being a thief. As noted above, you cannot afford to accept a theft conviction. Your career, livelihood and future could be permanently scarred if you are found guilty. It is critical to fight this ridiculous “policy” and vigorously defend yourself against this nonsense. We can help.

Shoplifting – Shoplifting is the common term for "theft" or sometimes "petty theft". This theft crime typically occurs when you steal, or attempt to steal, money or other items from a store, such as Wal-Mart or Best Buy. The State is usually more lenient on shoplifting cases, as opposed to employee theft cases. Nevertheless, it is always important to fight the charges against you in light of the potential punishment and future ramifications for this serious offense. As a defense attorney, I can help. I will zealously defend your case and help protect your future. If you have been charged with shoplifting or theft of any amount, please contact the Law Office of Nicholas R. Westbrook today.

PENALTIES FOR THEFT CRIMES -

In Texas, the amount allegedly stolen determines the range of punishment. If the amount is between $50 and $500, the State will charge you with a Class B misdemeanor. The punishment level increases to a Class A misdemeanor if the amount is between $500 and $1,500. Things get more serious beyond this amount. You will face a state jail felony if the alleged amount is between $1,500 and $20,000. If the amount is between $20,000 and $100,000, you will be looking at a third degree felony. Amounts between $100,000 and $200,000 raise your penalty to a second degree felony. You will face a first degree felony if the amount alleged is greater than $200,000.

CONTACT CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY NICHOLAS R. WESTBROOK –

As a Houston criminal defense lawyer, I am dedicated to protecting your future and helping you avoid a disastrous theft conviction on your record. I will implement the most effective defense solutions and do everything possible to defend you against this serious offense. To schedule a free consultation and start protecting yourself now, please call (713) 936-2174. You may also contact me through email or our Free Case Evaluation. I look forward to defending you and protecting your future.