What Are the Penalties for Theft Over $500 in Texas?

Theft and larceny charges are some of the most common criminal offenses in Texas. The penalty for a theft conviction can vary, but the monetary value of the stolen property is usually the most important factor. The higher the value, the more serious the consequences. If you or a loved one were arrested for theft over $500 in Plano, TX, you’ll need a knowledgeable theft attorney to assess your case, provide legal counsel, and represent your best interests in court.

Texas Theft and Larceny Laws

Although you’ve probably heard the terms “theft” and “larceny” used interchangeably, they’re not the same. Theft charges cover a much larger range of criminal acts. Texas law defines theft as the act of someone taking another person’s property unlawfully and without consent, without the intention of ever returning the item.

Larceny charges focus more on the criminal act of stealing and physically removing someone’s property without their permission. In Texas, the most common types of theft include:

• Physical property theft
• Theft by fraud or deception
• Theft of professional services
• Receiving or possessing stolen property

What Are the Penalties for Theft Charges Over $500 in Plano, TX?

The laws in Texas regarding theft require proof of several different criminal elements, such as intent to steal, lack of permission, and the physical act of taking someone’s property. However, the monetary value of the stolen property typically has the largest influence on how severe the punishment will be. Theft charges are split into two different categories: misdemeanors and felonies.

Potential Sentences for Misdemeanor Theft Charges

Misdemeanor crimes are split into three levels: Class C, Class B, and Class A. Class C misdemeanors are for property worth less than $100, so we’ll only focus on Class B and Class A charges. Misdemeanor charges are not as serious as felonies. However, a misdemeanor conviction could still result in a sentence of up to one year in jail.

Class B Misdemeanor Thefts

A Class B misdemeanor charge applies when stolen property or services are worth between $101 and $750. It also includes crimes where someone has stolen another person’s identification card or driver’s license. If you already have a theft conviction on your record, you can face a Class B charge even if the property’s value is under $100.

Class B Theft Penalties

You could receive a fine, time in jail, or both if convicted of a Class B theft, with sentences that include:

• Fines of up to $2,000
• Up to 180 days in county jail

Class A Misdemeanor Theft

The highest level of misdemeanor theft falls under the Class A category. Class A charges apply to crimes where the stolen property is worth between $700 and $2,500.

Class A Theft Penalties

Sentencing possibilities for Class A misdemeanor thefts include:

• Fines of up to $4,000
• Serving up to one year in county jail

Texas Felony Theft Charges and Penalties

Felony charges of theft or larceny are much more serious than misdemeanors and therefore have harsher sentencing guidelines. The different classes and consequences of felony theft increase with the severity of the crime and the value of the stolen property.

State Jail Felony Charge

Serving time in a state jail is a much different experience than a county jail. State jail felony charges are the lowest class of felony, but don’t let that fool you. They have serious consequences upon conviction. You may be charged with a state jail felony if:

• The stolen property is worth between $2,501 and $30,000
• You have three or more theft convictions
• The stolen property comes from another person, grave, or human corpse
• You have stolen an election ballot, gun, catalytic converter, and specific types of metal and livestock

Penalties for a Texas State Jail Felony Theft

If your case meets the Texas Penal Code requirements for a state jail felony, you could receive a fine, jail time, or both. Penalties include:

• Fines of up to $10,000
• State jail time between six months and two years

Third-Degree Felony Theft

Third-degree felony thefts can apply to a few different offenses. These include:

• Stealing services or property worth between $30,001 and $150,000
• Theft of livestock with a monetary value that’s under $150,000
• Stealing controlled substances that are worth under $150,000 from storage in commercial premises
• Having previous felony convictions
• Using or showing a deadly weapon (i.e., a firearm) during the theft

Penalties for a Third-Degree Felony Theft

As you might expect, the penalty for third-degree felony theft is worse than state jail felony offenses. A conviction could result in paying a large fine, spending time in jail, or both. Sentencing guidelines consist of:

• Fines of up to $10,000
• Serving between two and ten years in prison

It’s important to know that the punishments for theft and larceny in Texas can increase depending on certain factors. For example, an arrest for a third-degree felony can increase to a second-degree charge if the offender steals property from a nonprofit organization or a person aged 65 or older. The specific variables in each case will affect its outcome in court.

Second-Degree Felony Theft

Cases that fall under a second-degree felony charge consist of:

• Stealing property or services worth between $150,001 and $300,000
• Theft of an ATM or its components that are worth under $300,000

Penalties for a Second-Degree Theft Conviction

Upon conviction for a second-degree felony theft case in Plano, TX, you can expect to pay a hefty fine, serve time in prison, or both. Possible sentences include:

• Paying a fine of up to $10,000
• Prison time between two and 20 years

First-Degree Felony Theft

The highest classification of felony theft under Texas law is a felony of the first degree. These include cases where the accused has stolen property valued at more than $300,000. A first-degree felony conviction for larceny or theft will have serious, life-changing consequences.

Penalties for a First-Degree Felony Theft Conviction

Under Texas law, a conviction for a first-degree felony theft charge may consist of paying a fine, serving time in prison, or both. The specific sentencing guidelines include:

• Fines up to $10,000
• Serving between five and 99 years in prison

Consider Your Legal Options with an Experienced Theft Attorney in Plano, TX

No two criminal cases are alike. However, most cases end in one of three ways: a dismissal of charges, a plea bargain, or a jury trial. A theft conviction on your criminal record can have negative and long-lasting effects on your quality of life, financial stability, employment options, and more. Fortunately, you can hire a theft attorney to take the weight off your shoulders during this difficult time and try to increase the chances of a favorable outcome in court.

Don’t risk your future by waiting to seek legal counsel. Instead, look for a theft attorney with the skill and expertise required to meet your unique case needs. They can provide professional guidance, like evaluating your case, forming defense strategies, and handling legal negotiations. You’ll have an experienced lawyer to work hard on your behalf, protect your rights, and act as your advocate in court.

At Pelley Law Office, our lawyers are ready to provide the legal assistance you need to handle a theft or larceny charge of over $500. We’re proud to serve the communities of Plano, Dallas, and Sherman, TX, by putting our clients first and foremost. Don’t wait another day. Call Pelley Law Office in Plano, TX, now at (972) 608-0335, and schedule an initial consultation with our legal team.

Contact Our Texas Criminal Defense Law Firm For Help Today

If you’re facing criminal charges in Texas, we’re here to help. Contact the experienced criminal defense lawyers at Pelley Law Office, L.L.P., today to schedule a free consultation.

We proudly serve Plano, Dallas, Sherman, and the surrounding areas.

Pelley Law Office L.L.P. – Plano Office
Address: 1312 14th St, Plano, TX 75074
Phone: (972) 608-0335
Hours: 24/7

Our firm is located near you. Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 33.0180322,-96.6952916,863

Pelley Law Office L.L.P. – Sherman Office

Address: 905 N Travis St, Sherman, TX 75090
Phone: (903) 813-4778
Hours: 24/7

Our firm is located near you. Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 33.6445846,-96.6113141,857