This page was written, edited, reviewed & approved by Brian LaVine following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. Brian LaVine the Founding Partner, 10+ years of legal experience as criminal defense attorney.
At LaVine Law Firm, our Pasadena theft lawyer defends individuals accused of theft and related property crimes throughout Pasadena and the surrounding Texas communities. Theft charges can follow you for life, affecting your job, reputation, and personal relationships. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, over 400,000 theft-related offenses are reported each year across the state. These numbers show how common — and serious — theft allegations can be.
We understand that every theft case is different. Whether you face charges for petty theft, grand theft, or identity theft, we will fight to protect your rights. Our goal is to prevent a criminal conviction, reduce penalties, or have the charges dismissed. At LaVine Law Firm, we provide experienced, aggressive defense for anyone accused of committing theft or other property-related offenses.
At LaVine Law Firm, we know how stressful it is to face theft charges. A theft offense — whether it’s shoplifting, embezzlement, or grand theft auto — can carry severe consequences. You could face jail time, large fines, community service, and a permanent criminal record. These penalties can affect your ability to find work or housing for years.
Our Pasadena theft crime lawyer provides clear communication and a defense strategy built around your unique situation. We handle everything from police questioning to court appearances, ensuring your side of the story is heard. Early legal help from our defense attorney can make a major difference in your criminal case.
We are committed to defending your rights and fighting for your freedom through:
At LaVine Law Firm, we stand by our clients from start to finish, ensuring they receive the strong and fair defense they deserve.
Texas law defines theft broadly under Texas Penal Code §31.03, covering many actions that involve taking another person’s property without consent. Theft can include everything from shoplifting to large-scale fraud or vehicle theft. The penalties depend on the value of the stolen property and the accused's intent.
At LaVine Law Firm, we help clients in the Pasadena area facing theft charges — whether they involve grand or petty theft, burglary, or carjacking. We know that one mistake or misunderstanding should not ruin a person’s life. Our goal is to fight for fair treatment and to protect your future through careful legal defense.
Petty theft, sometimes called shoplifting, involves stealing property worth less than $2,500. Even this minor criminal offense can lead to serious consequences, including fines, county jail time, or probation. A conviction can also harm your employment chances and appear on background checks.
Our Pasadena theft lawyer works to show that the accused did not intend to steal or lacked criminal intent. We also challenge the prosecution’s evidence to get charges dismissed or reduced to a lesser misdemeanor. Even for small cases, early legal help can make a big difference.
Grand theft or felony theft involves property valued at $2,500 or more. Under the Texas Penal Code, these crimes are often charged as either a felony or a high-level misdemeanor, depending on the value of the property. Felony theft can lead to years in prison, large fines, and a permanent record.
We review every act, police report, and victim statement to challenge how the case was handled. Many clients are arrested due to misunderstandings, mistaken identity, or insufficient evidence. Our law offices work to reduce charges, negotiate plea agreements, or win at trial when the evidence is weak.
Financial theft crimes, such as issuing bad checks, identity theft, or credit card fraud, are typically prosecuted in Pasadena under the Texas Penal Code, Title 7, which covers offenses against property. Unlike a single statute, these crimes are defined by specific laws, such as Theft (§31.03), Fraudulent Use or Possession of Identifying Information (§32.51), and Credit Card or Debit Card Abuse (§32.31). A common thread in these cases is the necessity to prove the accused's criminal intent. If it can be shown that the person did not knowingly or intentionally act to deceive or defraud, they may have a strong defense against the charges.
At LaVine Law Firm, we look for inconsistencies in how prosecutors or district attorneys handle such charges. We also examine financial records, stolen goods, and money trails to uncover the truth. Our experienced defense attorney can often resolve cases before trial through negotiation or by reviewing evidence.
The penalties for theft crimes in Texas vary based on the value of the property and the nature of the offense. Theft of items valued at $100 or less is a Class C misdemeanor, while theft of higher-value items can become a first-degree felony. These crimes are punishable by heavy fines, county jail time, or long prison sentences.
Possible consequences include:
At LaVine Law Firm, we fight for our clients’ best interests in every case. We aim to reduce penalties, negotiate with prosecutors, and, when possible, get the charges dismissed. If you or a loved one is facing theft allegations, contact us today for a free consultation.
Every theft case is different, and no single defense works for everyone. The right defense depends on the evidence, witnesses, and details of the alleged crime. At LaVine Law Firm, we examine every fact to find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. We know that being accused does not make someone guilty. Our goal is to protect your rights and keep a felony charge or criminal conviction off your record.
Many theft cases depend on whether the accused intended to steal. If the defendant had no intent or was misidentified, the case could be dismissed. In some situations, multiple counts may result from simple misunderstandings or confusion over ownership.
We gather evidence that shows you had no plan to commit theft or that someone else committed the crime. By proving lack of intent or mistaken identity, we can often have charges reduced or dropped before trial.
Some theft charges arise when a person believes they had permission or ownership rights to the property. If you thought you could use or borrow the item, that misunderstanding can be a strong defense.
Our Pasadena theft lawyer reviews all communications between you and the property owner to find evidence of consent. We use that evidence to challenge the prosecution’s story and show that the act was not criminal. When the facts support your right to possess the property, we fight to have the charges dismissed or reduced.
The district attorney must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant intended to steal. If there is missing evidence or weak proof, the case should not proceed. We carefully review police reports, surveillance footage, and witness statements to identify any gaps.
If evidence was gathered improperly or your rights were violated, we use those mistakes to strengthen your defense. In many cases, we’ve had charges dismissed when the prosecution failed to meet its burden of proof.
At LaVine Law Firm, we use proven defense strategies to protect your freedom and reputation. We understand the serious consequences of a felony charge or prior conviction. That’s why we take an active approach to every case we handle.
Our defense process includes:
We work hard to protect your record and your future. Whether you’re accused of shoplifting, embezzlement, or grand theft, we’ll fight for your best outcome.
Choosing the right attorney can make all the difference when facing criminal charges. Our Pasadena theft lawyer has experience handling theft cases in Harris County courts and understands the local legal process. We provide personal attention to every client, guiding them through the criminal justice system with care and professionalism.
Here’s why clients trust our law offices:
We treat every client with respect and compassion. Whether you or a loved one faces multiple counts of theft or a felony charge, we’ll work tirelessly to protect your freedom. Contact us today for a free consultation and start building your defense.
What is considered theft in Texas?
Taking property without the owner’s consent and intending to deprive them of it. Even temporary control of stolen property can result in criminal charges.
Is shoplifting a felony in Texas?
It depends on the value—items worth more than $2,500 can result in a felony charge. Smaller amounts may still result in misdemeanor penalties or community service.
Can theft charges be dropped in Texas?
Yes. If the evidence is weak or the alleged victim withdraws the complaint, prosecutors may dismiss the case. We work to get charges dismissed whenever possible.
Will a theft conviction stay on my record?
Yes. If you are convicted, the record can stay permanently unless it’s expunged or sealed through legal action. A clean record often requires experienced legal help.
Can I avoid jail time for a first theft offense?
Possibly. Alternatives like probation, restitution, or diversion programs may be available. We work to help clients avoid county jail whenever possible.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor theft?
Yes. Even minor charges can affect future job opportunities. An experienced Pasadena theft lawyer can protect your rights and minimize long-term harm.
If you or a loved one has been arrested or convicted of theft, we can help. At LaVine Law Firm, we represent clients accused of theft crimes, shoplifting, and property damage throughout Pasadena and Harris County. Acting quickly gives you the best chance to protect your record and your reputation.
Our law offices focus on strong defense, honest communication, and proven results. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and develop a defense strategy tailored to your situation.
Call LaVine Law Firm today for a free consultation to discuss your defense options and safeguard your future. Let us help you move forward with confidence and a strong legal team on your side.
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