Facing charges for theft, burglary, or a white-collar offense in Texas is a serious matter that can have lasting consequences for your freedom, reputation, and future. Whether you’re accused of shoplifting, breaking and entering, or embezzlement, the stakes are high, and so is the need for an experienced criminal defense team.
At Guest & Gray, we provide aggressive, strategic representation to individuals charged with a wide range of property and financial crimes in Kaufman County and throughout Texas. Our goal is simple: protect your rights, your record, and your future.
Understanding Theft Charges in Texas
Under Texas Penal Code § 31.03, theft is broadly defined as unlawfully taking someone else’s property with the intent to deprive the owner of it. Theft charges can range from Class C misdemeanors to first-degree felonies depending on the value and type of property involved.
Common types of theft include:
- Shoplifting
- Employee theft
- Theft of services
- Auto theft
- Possession of stolen property
Penalties for Theft in Texas
The penalties for theft in Texas vary significantly based on several factors, most notably the value of the stolen property and the offender’s prior criminal history. For instance, theft of property worth less than $100 is generally charged as a Class C misdemeanor, which may result in a fine but typically does not involve jail time. Theft of property valued between $100 and $750 is classified as a Class B misdemeanor, carrying a potential jail term of up to 180 days and a fine of up to $2,000.
For theft involving property valued at $2,500 or more, the offense is typically charged as a felony, with penalties ranging from state jail time to first-degree felony convictions, depending on the amount involved. As the value of the stolen goods increases, so does the severity of the charge. Additionally, a person’s prior criminal record can result in enhanced penalties. Repeat offenders or individuals with certain felony convictions may face more serious consequences, regardless of the value involved.
Burglary: More Than Just “Breaking In”
Under Texas Penal Code § 30.02, burglary involves unlawfully entering a building or habitation without the owner’s consent and with the intent to commit a felony, theft, or assault inside. Unlike theft, which focuses on taking property, burglary centers on the unlawful entry combined with criminal intent, even if nothing is actually taken.
Because burglary is seen as both a property and personal safety offense, Texas prosecutors pursue these charges aggressively. Our defense focuses on questioning how law enforcement identified you as a suspect and whether the state can prove you had criminal intent at the time of entry.
White-Collar Crimes: Financial Allegations with Real Consequences
White-collar crimes are non-violent offenses that typically involve fraud, deception, or misuse of authority for financial gain. These cases often involve complex investigations and substantial amounts of evidence, including financial records, digital data, and corporate documents.
Examples of white-collar crimes we defend include:
- Embezzlement
- Forgery
- Identity theft
- Credit card abuse
- Wire fraud
- Insurance or Medicaid fraud
In Texas, many white-collar crimes are prosecuted as felonies and may also involve federal charges. Convictions can carry not only prison time, but also hefty fines, restitution orders, and career-ending consequences. At Guest & Gray, we have the resources and experience to dig into financial evidence, challenge government assumptions, and craft strong defenses tailored to the facts.
Why Choose Guest & Gray?
If you’ve been charged or believe you’re under investigation for theft, burglary, or a white-collar offense, now is the time to protect yourself. At Guest & Gray, we bring:
- A thorough understanding of Texas criminal law
- Proven trial experience in both misdemeanor and felony cases
- Personalized, strategic defense tailored to your circumstances
We fight for dismissals, reduced charges, and favorable plea deals, but we’re also ready to take your case to trial if that’s what it takes to defend your name.
Call Guest & Gray Today for a Confidential Consultation
Don’t let an arrest define your future. Whether you’re facing a shoplifting accusation, a burglary charge, or a white-collar investigation, Guest & Gray is here to help. Contact us today to schedule your confidential consultation and begin building your defense.
