Secrets of the Texas Criminal Justice System and Your Rights
Theft charges in McKinney, Texas, can carry serious legal consequences, and even what may seem like a minor offense could have lasting impacts on your life. A conviction could affect your career, reputation, and future opportunities. If you’re facing theft charges in McKinney, it’s important to understand the legal landscape and potential penalties. Working with an experienced McKinney theft defense attorney can help you protect your rights and secure a favorable outcome.
Theft, as defined under Texas law, involves the unlawful taking of someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of that property. In McKinney, theft crimes can vary widely and include a range of offenses:
Shoplifting: Stealing items from a store without paying. This is a common theft crime in McKinney, often resulting in criminal charges for those caught attempting to steal merchandise.
Issuing Bad Checks: Writing checks that bounce or are returned due to insufficient funds. If you fail to make restitution within 10 days of receiving notice, you could face theft charges.
General Theft: Taking someone’s property without their consent. This could range from small personal items to larger, high-value possessions.
Receiving Stolen Property: Purchasing or accepting stolen goods with knowledge that they are stolen. You can be charged with theft even if you did not directly steal the property yourself.
Regardless of the type of theft charge, having a skilled McKinney criminal defense attorney can help you navigate the legal process and build a strong defense.
The penalties for theft in McKinney depend on the value of the stolen property, and Texas law classifies theft crimes based on this value:
Misdemeanors: Theft of items with lower values (typically under $2,500) is usually classified as a misdemeanor. This can result in fines, short jail sentences, or both. For example, theft involving property worth less than $2,500 may be classified as either a Class A or Class B misdemeanor.
Felonies: More significant thefts result in felony charges. These charges include:
State Jail Felony: Theft of property valued between $2,500 and $30,000 can lead to 180 days to 2 years in jail and fines up to $10,000.
Third-Degree Felony: If the stolen property is worth between $30,000 and $150,000, you could face 2 to 10 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
Second-Degree Felony: Theft of property valued between $150,000 and $300,000 may lead to 2 to 20 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
First-Degree Felony: The most serious cases, involving theft of property worth over $200,000, can result in 5 to 99 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
Regardless of the charge, a conviction for theft in McKinney can result in a permanent criminal record, which can have long-term consequences on your employment prospects, personal relationships, and future opportunities.
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