Because theft is considered a crime of dishonesty, the State of Texas is particularly tough on these types of offenses. A single allegation of grand theft can lead to lengthy prison time, hefty fines, and other potentially life-long penalties.
If you are suspected of committing grand theft in San Antonio, it is crucial that you partner with a skilled San Antonio grand theft attorney who will work diligently to protect your rights. When your freedom, future opportunities, and financial well-being are on the line, you can count on former Assistant District Attorney Sophia C. Martinez to construct a solid strategy to defend your case.
What You Should Know About Grand Theft Laws in San Antonio, Texas
Theft, also known by law as larceny, is outlined in Texas Penal Code Section 31.03(a), which states that the crime occurs when someone unlawfully takes another person’s property without the owner’s consent and with the intent to keep it permanently.
Regardless of whether the theft involves a small amount of money or a highly valued object, if you have been accused of committing a theft crime, you have the right to seek qualified legal counsel. A San Antonio grand theft lawyer, especially one like Sophia M. Martinez, has the experience and skills to safeguard your freedom and rights if you were arrested in the San Antonio area.
Definition of Grand Theft
Laws in many states, such as Texas, deem theft crimes to be grand theft if:
- The property stolen is worth over $500 in total
- The property was taken directly from a person without the use of force or fear
- Particular types of property were taken
In order for a grand theft charge to become a conviction, the prosecution must prove or show that a grand theft crime actually transpired. Often, the way to defend a charge of grand theft is to prove that either the defendant lacked intent or that the case involved an unlawful search and seizure.
Penalties You Could Face for Grand Theft Crimes in San Antonio, Texas
If you have been accused of stealing another person’s property in San Antonio, you could be facing severe punishments. The penalties you will face for a grand theft charge are dependent on the monetary value of the stolen property, including non-tangible goods such as services.
The prosecutor determines the value of the stolen property by taking into consideration the following:
- Original purchase price of the property
- Fair market value or the cost to replace the stolen property
- Amount of depreciation after the purchase of the property
- Quality and condition of the property at the time of receipt
In Texas, grand theft is charged as either a high-level misdemeanor or felony offense, which could come with the following consequences:
Class B Misdemeanor Theft (stolen property valued $100 or more but less than $750.00):
- Up to a $4,000 fine
- Up to one year of jail time
Class A Misdemeanor Theft (stolen property valued $750 or more but less than $2500.00):
- Up to a $4,000 fine
- Up to one year of jail time
State Jail Felony Theft (stolen property or services valued $2,500 or more but less than $30,000):
- Up to a $10,000 fine
- Up to 2 years of state jail timeThird-Degree Theft Felony (stolen property or services valued $30,000 or more but less than $150,000):
- Up to a $10,000 fine
- From 2 years to up to 10 years of imprisonment
Second-Degree Theft Felony (stolen property or services valued is $150,000 or more but less than $300,000):
- Up to a $10,000 fine
- From 2 years to up to 20 years of imprisonment
First-Degree Theft Felony (stolen property or services valued is $300,000 or more):
- Up to a $10,000 fine
- From 5 years to up to 99 years of imprisonment
Because the repercussions for grand theft crimes can be so severe in San Antonio, it is vital to contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. The earlier in the process that you can bring your case to an attorney, the more time your attorney will have to build a strong defense to help you fight your criminal charge.
Hire a San Antonio Grand Theft Lawyer to Defend Your Case
Former Assistant District Attorney Sophia C. Martinez is well-versed in defending people accused of property crimes in San Antonio and throughout the State of Texas. Boasting over 25 years of experience supporting the accused during their fight for justice, Sophia Martinez Law is prepared to go to work for you. Attorney Martinez understands the importance of attaining the best results possible for her clients, so she approaches every case with compassion, diligence, and respect.
To schedule a free evaluation of your grand theft case with Criminal Defense Attorney Sophia C. Martinez, contact a San Antonio grand theft attorney from the Sophia Martinez Law office today by completing our contact form or calling (210) 226-3000. Phone lines are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Se Habla Espanol.