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Facing Theft or Shoplifting Charges?
Protect Your Freedom
Before Time Runs Out.

San Antonio Theft Defense Attorneys

Theft & Shoplifting Defense Lawyers in South Central Texas

Have you been accused of stealing? Theft allegations like shoplifting can cause embarrassment and anxiety, resulting in a Class C misdemeanor on your record. Other more serious theft crimes can be charged as elevated misdemeanors and even felonies. Penalties can vary from simple fines to prison sentences. Furthermore, because theft is considered a “crime of moral turpitude,” it can seriously impact your life. A simple background check by an employer, landlord, university, or other agency can lead to an embarrassing rejection of an opportunity that everyone else takes for granted.

If you have been charged, you need a competent San Antonio theft defense lawyer from Smith & Vinson Law Firm in your corner. We can assess the State’s evidence against you and fight to keep your record clean. In some instances, we can work towards a resolution of your case that does not include a conviction. You may be eligible for a diversion program or you may be able to avoid a conviction through restitution.

Contact our offices for a free consultation about your case. Call (210) 960-9557 today.

Types of Theft Crimes in Texas

Many types of theft crimes exist under Texas law. Generally, for a conviction to take place, the prosecution will have to prove two things. First, that you took the property with intent to steal it and then that you were found with the property in your possession.

Examples of theft crimes that we handle include:

  • Shoplifting
  • Passing bad checks
  • Forgery
  • Identity theft
  • Credit card theft
  • Car theft
  • Buying or taking stolen property
  • Embezzlement
  • Fraud
  • Ponzi schemes
  • Burglary
  • Robbery

Different elements of proof must be demonstrated in each of these crimes. In each case, the prosecution is burdened with proving these elements beyond a reasonable doubt. As always, you are innocent until proven guilty and our firm can formulate a strong defense based on a thorough investigation into the incident. At Smith & Vinson Law Firm, our attorneys fight hard to help you avoid a theft conviction that could be detrimental to your future.

Theft Crime Penalties

Penalties for theft crimes are based on the value of the property stolen:

  • Less than $50 (or less than $20 by check) is charged as a Class C misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $500
  • $50 to $499 (or $20 but less than $500 by check) is a Class B misdemeanor punishable by up to 180 days in a county jail and a fine of up to $2,000
  • $500 - $1,499 is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in a county jail and a fine of up to $4,000
  • $1,500 up to $20,000 is a state jail felony punishable by 180 days up to two years in a state jail and a fine of up to $10,000
  • $20,000 up to $100,000 is a third-degree felony punishable by two to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000
  • $100,000 up to $200,000 is a second-degree felony punishable by two to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000
  • $200,000 or more is a first-degree felony punishable by five to 99 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000

What to Do if You Are Accused of Shoplifting

If you have been arrested for shoplifting, you are probably feeling overwhelmed and anxious. If it is your first time being accused of a crime, you might have no idea what to do.

We recommend that you:

  1. Always cooperate with security personnel. A store security person or loss prevention officer will likely confront you if they suspect shoplifting. Retailers often contact the police so trying to flee the scene or resisting arrest can lead to further criminal charges. Remain calm and do what is asked.
  2. If the store’s employees try to question you, ask to have a witness present. The witness could be another employee or a manager. Write down everyone’s name and job title.
  3. Do not sign any paperwork until you have read it carefully. This paperwork is often an incident report required by the retailer’s store policy. Never sign anything that has inaccurate or incomplete information.
  4. Contact our law firm. The police will usually have been called before you leave the premises. In that case, you may have been arrested or given a citation with a court date. Call our offices for a free consultation to discuss your options. We are on call night and day, seven days a week.

It is important that you do not try to handle a shoplifting or theft charge by yourself. The majority of big retailers prosecute these offenses to the fullest extent of the law no matter the value of the property in question. They also will not back down from pressing charges should you return the property or try to pay restitution.

When you contact a criminal defense lawyer at Smith & Vinson Law Firm, we begin a detailed investigation into the matter. This includes interviewing witnesses, reviewing security camera footage, and evaluating reports.

We Fight for You

Our San Antonio theft attorneys take your criminal charges seriously; we aggressively fight to protect your rights and to help you avoid penalties. Contacting our firm is an important first step when facing the Texas criminal justice system. Take advantage of our experience and commitment by calling us as soon as possible.

Contact us for a free initial consultation. Call (210) 960-9557 now.

Our Clients Are Our Biggest Endorsers
Hear What They Have to Say

  • Professional representation at its best!

    “I am grateful for the representation both men have provided me and without hesitation, I would speak volumes of their service. Thank you so much!”

    Victor

  • Exceptionally versed in the intricacies of Texas criminal law

    “Having never been exposed to the criminal system, hiring an attorney was daunting task. Attorney Brad Vinson was informative, professional yet sympathetic with his approach to my case. Mr. Vinson was open to opinion and ensured that all legal avenues were considered and addressed before presenting a course of action. Ultiamtely, Mr. Vinson was able to negotiate a reasonable settlement dispite many hoops and hurdles presented by the prosecuting county. I would highly recommend Smith and Vinson for representation in a criminal matter.”

    Michael

  • Second to NONE

    “I would love to add my thanks and heart felt appreciation for the help that your law firm provided me. Before I met you guys my situation looked very bleak and quite honestly your dedication to my case really carried over this past year and the reward was not only one felony dismissal but two. Thank you from the Ramirez family, I will always be great full and you guys have earned a spot in my family. For anyone reading, this firm is second to NONE, they know what there talking about and do exactly what they promise to do. Very professional, on time and and educate you along the whole process. I had alot to lose and you guys gave it all back to me and finally represented what true Justice is here in America. God bless you both and God bless your firm”

    Manuel R.

  • 5 Stars in making me feel like a top priority!

    “Jarrod Smith of Smith and Vinson Law Firm provided me with the best service I could have possibly asked for. Having no background in law and finding myself in a situation that left me feeling extremely vulnerable, I felt quickly at ease in their care. They were very reasonable with my situation and helped work around my needs in providing me the most support and information on how to best handle my case. I'd recommend this firm to anyone seeking help with a traffic violation of any kind. I feel that if it weren't for them I would have been heavily misguided and probably would not have made it through the system with the best possible outcome for me. 5 Stars for their service, generosity, and in making me feel like a top priority!”

    Andrew

  • Outstanding Lawyer

    “He is well versed in evidence and criminal law nuances, skills which allow him to level the playing field for his clients and make certain they get a fair chance at justice.”

    Matt

  • Top Attorney Avvo Rating 10.0
  • Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association
  • Avvo 10.0 Rating
  • Texas Bar College
  • DUI Defense Lawyers Association
  • National College for DUI Defense
  • Avvo 5 Star Reviews
  • Avvo Clients' Choice Award

WHY HIRE US?

  • We are accessible to you. Our attorneys can be reached 24/7.
  • Bold and fearless defense are what we are known for.
  • Turn to us for straightforward legal advice when you need it.
  • We offer free consultations to every single client served.