Shoplifting
Shoplifting Defense in Houston: Brazoria, Ft. Bend, Galveston, Harris & Montgomery Counties
According to Texas law, shoplifting is leaving with merchandise items from a store or other retail business with no intention of paying for those items. The law also covers the offense of changing or swapping price tags on merchandise in order to pay less for a more expensive item. Legally, shoplifting is considered a type of theft.
If you have been accused of shoplifting, call (832) 752-5972 to schedule a free consultation with the Law Office of Greg Tsioros and hear about your legal options.
What are the Consequences of Shoplifting?
The exact consequences of shoplifting depend on the details of the case, the judge, and sometimes the ability of your defense lawyer. If convicted, shoplifting can lead to a permanent mark on, or creation of, a criminal record. It can also hurt your credit rating and lead to your inability to seek employment in certain industries. Naturally, you will most likely be banned from the retail establishment that you stole from. And lastly, being found guilty of shoplifting can be damaging to your social standing with friends, family, and the community.
What are the Specific Penalties for Shoplifting?
Penalties often come in the form of fines and range according to the retail value of the goods in question:
- Goods worth less than $50: A maximum fine of $500
- Goods worth between $50 to $499: Up to 180 days in confinement and a maximum fine of $2,000
- Goods worth between $500 to $1,499 – Up to one year in confinement and a maximum fine of $4,000
- Goods worth between $1,500 to $14,999 – Up to two years in confinement and a maximum fine of $10,000
In addition, if the accused person has been previously convicted of shoplifting, stole guns, ammunition, or precious metals and stones, then a more severe sentence may be delivered.
What is the Best Defense Against Shoplifting Charges?
A number of shoplifting cases come about when a person makes an honest mistake or was simply being careless. According to the law, shoplifting must involve an intention to leave with items without paying. The prosecutor must prove that this intention existed, and a good Houston shoplifting attorney in many cases can show that this intention did not exist. In this way, having an experienced defense lawyer is crucial to protecting your rights and receiving the best possible outcome from your shoplifting case.
A Shoplifting Lawyer in Houston, TX
Greg Tsioros is an affordable attorney with experience defending those accused of theft and shoplifting. Get in touch with the Law Office of Greg Tsioros at (832) 752-5972 to get a free evaluation of your shoplifting case.