Round Rock Shoplifting Attorney

Aggressive Defense for Shoplifting Charges in Texas

Shoplifting is a serious crime in Texas. If you are convicted, you could face jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you are facing shoplifting charges, it is important to take the situation seriously and seek legal representation as soon as possible. At Pennington Law PLLC, we provide aggressive defense for clients facing shoplifting charges in Round Rock and the surrounding areas. Our Round Rock shoplifting lawyers are committed to protecting your rights and fighting for the best possible result in your case.

Call Pennington Law today at (512) 877-4384 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our shoplifting lawyer in Round Rock.

What is Shoplifting?

Shoplifting, also known as retail theft, is considered a criminal offense that transpires when an individual intentionally takes merchandise or property from a retail establishment without paying for it or obtaining permission. Shoplifting can take various forms, including:

• Concealing items: This involves hiding merchandise on your person, in a bag, or in any other manner to avoid detection while leaving the store.
• Altering price tags: Changing or switching price tags on items to pay less than their actual value.
• Larceny: Physically taking items from the store with the intent to steal them.
• Employee theft: When an employee of the store is involved in stealing merchandise or providing assistance to shoplifters.

What Are the Penalties for Shoplifting in Texas?

The consequences of a shoplifting conviction in Texas can be significant. The penalties vary depending on the value of the stolen items and whether the accused has any prior convictions for theft-related offenses. It is essential to understand the potential consequences you may face:

• Class B Misdemeanor: Shoplifting property valued between $100 and $750 is classified as a Class B misdemeanor. This can lead to a fine of up to $2,000 and up to 180 days in county jail.
• Class A Misdemeanor: If the stolen property is valued between $750 and $2,500, the offense becomes a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $4,000 and up to one year in county jail.
• State Jail Felony: When stolen property is worth between $2,500 and $30,000, the offense becomes a state jail felony, carrying a potential prison sentence of 180 days to 2 years and a fine of up to $10,000.
• Third-Degree Felony: If the value of the stolen property is between $30,000 and $150,000, it's a third-degree felony, punishable by a prison term of 2 to 10 years and a fine that can reach up to $10,000.
• Second-Degree Felony: Shoplifting property worth between $150,000 and $300,000 is classified as a second-degree felony, which can result in a prison term of 2 to 20 years and a fine that can reach up to $10,000.
• First-Degree Felony: The most serious shoplifting cases involve property valued at over $300,000, which is a first-degree felony. A conviction can lead to a prison sentence of 5 to 99 years and a fine that can reach up to $10,000.

Defenses Against Shoplifting Charges

Some common defenses against shoplifting charges may include:

• Lack of intent: Proving that you did not have the intent to steal the merchandise, which is a crucial element of a shoplifting charge.
• Mistaken identity: Establishing that you were wrongly identified as the shoplifter, and there is a case of mistaken identity.
• Illegal search and seizure: Challenging the evidence against you on the grounds of unlawful search and seizure by law enforcement.
• Lack of evidence: Demonstrating that the prosecution's evidence is inadequate to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
• Negotiating a diversion program: In some cases, it may be possible to negotiate with the prosecution to enter a diversion program or seek a reduction in charges.
• Proving ownership: If you can establish that you own the items in question or had the store's permission to take them, this may serve as a defense against shoplifting charges.