Theft and Burglary Defense
When you stand accused of a crime like burglary or theft in the state of Texas, the effects can be devastating on your life and your future. Without a doubt, facing such serious charges without an experienced criminal defense team that knows the Dallas/Ft. Worth court system and has been defending clients on similar charges could is a mistake no one wants to make. For example, under some circumstances, if your attorney can begin a civil compensation case on your behalf, prosecutors may be unwilling to bring charges against you.
Theft charges and misdemeanors rely on the value of the alleged stolen items. If convicted of a theft crime, you will encounter criminal penalties such as fines, restitution, imprisonment, and a permanent scar on your record. It is vital you seek the guidance and knowledge of an experienced Texas defense attorney before speaking to the police or prosecution. A defense lawyer can provide proven strategies to help avert the lasting consequences of a criminal conviction.
The Huston Firm in Fort Worth has defended criminal charges of thefts ranging from:
- Burglary
- Auto theft
- Carjacking
- Shoplifting
- White collar crimes such as embezzlement and fraud
- Petty theft
- Grand theft
- Identity Theft
- Fraud
- Petty Larceny
- Grand Larceny
- Receiving Stolen Property
- Forgery
If you know or think you are going to be accused of theft, burglary, or a related crime on this list, the first course of action you should take is to take care with whom you speak to about the possible pending charges. This is especially true when speaking with the police as they may not be completely honest with you. Your best course of action is to refuse to answer questions as politely as possible and request you be able to secure an attorney for your defense anytime you face questioning by police of a crime you may be charged with, whether guilty or innocent.
Burglary is the most prevalent theft crime. Burglary is the unlawful entrance of a building, residence, or vehicle with the intent to commit a crime. Texas law even includes entering a building but remaining concealed with the intent to commit the crime later.
Penalties for Burglary in Texas
The consequences of burglary vary depending on the type of building and intent of the perpetrator. There are three basic charges:
- Burglary of a building
- Burglary of a habitation
- Burglary of a habitation with an intent to commit another crime such as assault
In the event you are found guilty, the Judge will have the option to sentence you to prison, order you to pay a fine, order you to make restitution, and/or order you to serve probation or perform community service depending on the circumstances of your particular case. For example, for theft values between $1500 and $20,000, the crime is considered a state jail felony, which can be punished with fines of no more than $10,000 plus as long as a two year prison sentence. If your case involved burglary of a private residence, then the charge becomes a felony of the second degree which carries with it maximum penalties of up to $10,000 in fines and 20 year prison sentence.
Remember, in the state of Texas, you are innocent until proven guilty so the burden of proof falls on the prosecution. Should the prosecution bring forth witnesses and other evidence, your attorney can cross-examine them to help present your best possible defense.
Help from a Former Prosecutor
If you are arrested for a burglary or other theft charge in Texas, it is critical you have a strong defense attorney on your side. Politely cooperate with the arresting officer, but inform them immediately that you will not talk without your attorney present. To be clear, you should never agree to anything with the police without first discussing it with your attorney. This includes searches, and plea bargains.
Then call The Huston Firm so we can get started on your defense. G. Dewayne Huston was a prosecutor and so he more than understands the extent and procedures of the law and how the government handles cases such as theft and burglary. Let our lawyers at The Huston Firm help protect your rights and guide you through the process.
Never assume that your charges don’t warrant legal defense or that because you are innocent you can represent yourself. In the state of Texas, when you are facing theft, burglary or other related charges, hiring an experienced, knowledgeable attorney is the best way to proceed.
Contact our office today for your free consultation. The Huston Firm serves clients in the DFW area and throughout North Texas.