Using Dallas Theft Attorneys to Avoid Jail Time for Larceny

Using Dallas Theft Attorneys to Avoid Jail Time for Larceny

Hey y’all, dealing with a theft charge in Texas can be real scary. Believe me, I know. Last year I got caught shoplifting a pair of jeans from Macy’s – not my finest moment. The security guard grabbed me on the way out and the cops came and arrested me. I was terrified I was gonna end up in jail! Lucky for me, my uncle told me to call his friend who’s a Dallas theft attorney. This lawyer really saved my hide.

Now I ain’t saying stealing is okay, but we all make mistakes, am I right? And one mistake shouldn’t ruin your whole life. That’s where having a good theft lawyer can make a real difference. Keep reading and I’ll tell you everything I learned from my experience so you know what to do if you ever find yourself in a similar spot.

How Theft Charges Work in Texas

In Texas, theft is called larceny. The law says it’s taking someone else’s property without permission with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. Texas divides larceny into different categories based on how much the stolen items are worth:

• Under $100 – Class C misdemeanor, up to $500 fine but no jail time
• $100 to $750 – Class B misdemeanor, up to 180 days in jail
• $750 to $2,500 – Class A misdemeanor, up to 1 year in jail
• Over $2,500 – felony charge, at least 180 days to 99 years in prison

As you can see, the punishments get a lot harsher as the value increases. My shoplifted jeans were around $60 bucks, so I was looking at a Class C misdemeanor. Still, I was worried about having a criminal record so I called a lawyer right away.

How a Dallas Theft Lawyer Can Help

Hiring a lawyer to help with your theft case is so important. The legal system can be confusing AF and the prosecutors aren’t exactly looking out for your best interests. A good attorney knows how to navigate the system and protect your rights. Here’s some of what a theft lawyer can do for you:

• Review the details of your case and identify any legal issues
• Advise you on whether to fight the charges or seek a plea deal
• Negotiate with the prosecutor for reduced charges or probation
• Build defenses like you didn’t intend to steal or were falsely accused
• Represent you in court if your case goes to trial
• Help get your record expunged if you’re convicted

My Dallas theft attorney was able to get my shoplifting charges dismissed by talking to the prosecutor and showing it was a dumb mistake, not a pattern of theft. I walked away with no criminal record thanks to her help.

Finding the Right Dallas Theft Lawyer

Not all lawyers are created equal, so you gotta find someone good. Here’s what to look for in a Dallas theft attorney:

• Experience specifically with theft and larceny cases
• Good relationships with local prosecutors and judges
• History of positive case results like dismissals, acquittals, reduced sentences
• Affordable rates and payment plans

I’d avoid lawyers who make big promises they can’t keep or try to scare you into hiring them. Look for someone who listens and clearly explains your options. Don’t just pick the first lawyer you find – shop around a bit!

My Dallas attorney had over 15 years of experience with theft cases and knew all the prosecutors by name. She walked me through what to expect at every step. I felt totally comfortable with her.

Theft Defense Strategies

If your theft case does end up going to court, your lawyer will need a solid defense strategy. Here are some of the most common ways theft attorneys defend their clients:

• You lacked criminal intent – Argue you didn’t realize you hadn’t paid or were falsely accused of stealing.
• The value is wrong – Challenge how the stolen items were valued to reduce the charges.
• Illegal search – Claim the police violated your rights in obtaining evidence.
• Mistaken identity – Assert it was someone else who committed the theft.

A skilled lawyer will look at every angle of your case to figure out the best defense. My attorney focused on showing I had no intent to steal since it was my first offense.

Alternatives to Jail Time

For minor theft charges like shoplifting, prosecutors often offer alternatives to jail like:

• Probation – You plead guilty but don’t serve jail time. You must follow probation terms instead.
• Diversion – Charges dismissed after completing theft prevention classes or community service.
• Deferred adjudication – No final conviction if you complete probation requirements.

My lawyer got the prosecutor to agree to deferred adjudication. I did 100 hours of community service, paid a fine, and after 6 months my charges were dismissed and record sealed. No jail needed!

Takeaways

Dealing with a theft accusation is scary but having the right Dallas theft attorney in your corner makes a huge difference. Remember these key takeaways if you’re facing larceny charges:

• Hire a lawyer ASAP – don’t try to handle this alone!
• Find an experienced attorney you trust and feel comfortable with.
• Your lawyer can negotiate reduced charges or alternative sentences.
• A solid defense strategy can get your charges dismissed.
• Diversion programs allow you to avoid jail time.

Well, I hope this gives you a good overview of how Dallas theft lawyers can help if you’re dealing with a petty theft or shoplifting charge. We all make mistakes – don’t let one mistake ruin your life. Call a great attorney and fight those charges! Good luck y’all!