Frisco Theft Lawyer
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Experienced Frisco Theft Lawyer

Facing theft charges in Frisco can feel overwhelming and frightening. The consequences of a theft conviction extend far beyond fines and jail time. They can impact your employment, housing opportunities, professional licenses, and reputation for years to come. At My Dallas Criminal Lawyer, our experienced Frisco theft lawyer understands the stakes and fights hard to protect your rights and future.

Attorney Justin Wilson brings a valuable advantage to your defense as a former prosecutor who handled theft cases from 2013 to 2016. This insider knowledge of prosecution strategies, combined with our proven track record in Collin County courts, gives our clients strong defense against theft charges.

If you’ve been arrested for theft in Frisco, don’t wait to seek legal representation. Contact us today at 214-949-4117 for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your defense options.

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Why Choose My Dallas Criminal Lawyer for Your Frisco Theft Case

Our Defense Approach for Theft Cases

Former Prosecutor Advantage

Attorney Justin Wilson’s experience as a prosecutor from 2013 to 2016 provides valuable insight into how the state builds theft cases. This background allows us to:

  • Anticipate prosecution strategies before they develop
  • Identify weaknesses in the state’s case early in the process
  • Leverage relationships with Collin County prosecutors for favorable negotiations
  • Understand which defenses work most effectively with local judges and juries

Proven Track Record in Collin County Courts

Our results speak for themselves. We’ve achieved:

  • Theft $100-$749 dismissed when we proved the client was still shopping and lacked intent to steal
  • Aggravated robbery reduced to misdemeanor theft with time served, saving our client from a lengthy prison sentence
  • Multiple property crime dismissals and reductions through thorough investigation and aggressive advocacy

Comprehensive Defense Strategies

Every theft case requires a tailored defense strategy. We provide:

  • Thorough Case Investigation: We examine every piece of evidence, interview witnesses, and investigate the circumstances surrounding your arrest.
  • Evidence Suppression Motions: When police violate your constitutional rights, we file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence.
  • Witness Testimony Challenges: We scrutinize witness statements for inconsistencies and challenge unreliable testimony.
  • Alternative Sentencing Options: We explore pre-trial diversion programs, community service, and other alternatives to jail time.

Our Defense Approach for Theft Cases

Thorough Case Investigation

Our investigation begins immediately upon retention. We:

  • Review Surveillance Footage: Store security cameras often provide important evidence that can support your defense or reveal police misconduct.
  • Analyze Witness Statements: We examine all witness statements for inconsistencies, bias, or reliability issues that can undermine the prosecution’s case.
  • Examine Physical Evidence: From fingerprints to DNA evidence, we verify that proper collection and testing procedures were followed.
  • Investigate Arrest Procedures: We scrutinize whether police followed proper procedures during your arrest and investigation.

Evidence Analysis and Challenges

Many theft cases involve evidence that can be challenged or suppressed:

  • Chain of Custody Issues: Evidence must be properly handled and documented. Breaks in the chain of custody can lead to suppression.
  • Illegal Search and Seizure: Courts cannot use evidence obtained through unlawful searches against you.
  • Miranda Rights Violations: Courts may suppress statements made during custodial interrogation without proper Miranda warnings.
  • Insufficient Evidence to Prove Intent: The prosecution must prove you intended to steal. Circumstantial evidence often fails to meet this burden.

Negotiation and Trial Preparation

We prepare every case for trial while pursuing favorable plea negotiations:

  • Pre-trial Diversion Programs: First-time offenders may qualify for programs that result in dismissal upon completion.
  • Plea Bargain Negotiations: We negotiate reduced charges, alternative sentencing, and favorable plea terms when appropriate.
  • Jury Trial Preparation: When a trial is necessary, we prepare compelling defenses and challenge the prosecution’s evidence.
  • Sentencing Mitigation: We present evidence of your character, circumstances, and rehabilitation efforts to minimize penalties.

Convenient Frisco Office Location

Our Frisco office at 5 Cowboys Way STE 300, Frisco, TX 75034, provides easy access for residents throughout Collin County. We also maintain our Dallas headquarters, giving us the resources and reach to handle complex cases while remaining accessible to our Frisco clients.

We offer 24/7 availability for urgent matters, understanding that DWI arrests often occur outside normal business hours. When you need immediate assistance, we are here to help.

Frisco Office 5 Cowboys Way STE 300, Frisco, TX, 75034 214-949-4117
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Frisco Office – Hours
Our team is available by phone 24/7Office Hours
Monday8AM – 5PM
Tuesday8AM – 5PM
Wednesday8AM – 5PM
Thursday8AM – 5PM
Friday8AM – 5PM
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Table Of Contents

    Understanding Theft Charges in Frisco, Texas

    Texas Penal Code § 31.03 - Definition of Theft

    Under Texas Penal Code § 31.03, theft occurs when a person unlawfully appropriates property with the intent to deprive the owner of that property. The prosecution must prove three key elements beyond a reasonable doubt:

    • Unlawful appropriation – Taking property without the owner’s consent
    • Intent to deprive – The specific intention to permanently or temporarily deprive the owner of their property
    • Property of another – The item belonged to someone else at the time of the alleged theft

    Understanding these elements is important because our defense strategies often focus on challenging the prosecution’s ability to prove intent or lawful appropriation.

    Common Types of Theft Cases We Handle

    Our Frisco theft lawyer handles a wide range of property crime cases throughout Collin County and Denton County:

    • Shoplifting and Retail Theft: From department store incidents to grocery store theft allegations, we defend clients against retail theft and shoplifting charges. Additionally, we respond to civil demand letters from stores.
    • Burglary and Breaking and Entering: We handle burglary of habitation, burglary of buildings, and burglary of vehicles. Furthermore, we often challenge the prosecution’s ability to prove intent to commit theft.
    • Robbery and Aggravated Robbery: These serious felony charges require immediate, aggressive defense. We’ve successfully reduced aggravated robbery charges to misdemeanor theft with time served.
    • Unauthorized Use of Motor Vehicle: Vehicle theft charges carry severe penalties. However, we’ve achieved dismissals by challenging evidence and proving lack of intent to permanently deprive.
    • Criminal Mischief: Property damage cases often involve complex valuation issues that we challenge to reduce charges and penalties.
    • Receiving Stolen Property: These cases require proving knowledge that the property was stolen. We frequently challenge this through evidence analysis.

    Penalties for Theft Convictions in Texas

    The penalties for theft in Texas depend primarily on the value of the allegedly stolen property. Understanding these penalties helps illustrate why aggressive defense representation is important.

    Misdemeanor Theft Penalties

    Class C Misdemeanor (Value less than $100): Punishable by a fine of up to $500. While this seems minor, even Class C theft convictions appear on background checks and can affect employment.

    Class B Misdemeanor (Value of $100 to less than $750): Punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000. A theft of less than $100 can also be enhanced to a Class B offense if the defendant has a previous theft conviction. We’ve achieved dismissals in these cases by proving clients lacked intent to steal.

    Class A Misdemeanor (Value of $750 to less than $2,500): Punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000. These cases often involve plea negotiations to avoid jail time.

    Felony Theft Consequences

    State Jail Felony ($2,500-$29,999): 180 days to 2 years in state jail and a fine up to $10,000. These cases require immediate, aggressive defense.

    Third-Degree Felony ($30,000-$149,999): 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000.

    Second-Degree Felony ($150,000-$299,999): 2 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000.

    First-Degree Felony ($300,000 or more): 5 years to life in prison and a fine up to $10,000.

    Long-term Impact on Your Future

    A theft conviction creates lasting consequences beyond immediate penalties:

    • Employment Background Checks: Most employers conduct criminal background checks. Theft convictions raise red flags about trustworthiness and integrity.
    • Professional Licensing Issues: Many professional licenses can be suspended or revoked following theft convictions. This affects careers in healthcare, finance, education, and law.
    • Housing Applications: Landlords often reject rental applications from individuals with theft convictions. This limits housing options.
    • Educational Opportunities: Colleges and universities may deny admission or financial aid based on criminal convictions.
    • Immigration Consequences: Non-citizens face potential deportation, inadmissibility, and other immigration consequences from theft convictions.

    The Criminal Justice Process in Frisco

    Some of the most important steps during the criminal justice process in Frisco, Texas are:

    Arrest and Booking

    Understanding your rights during arrest is important:

    • Your Rights During Arrest: You have the right to remain silent and request an attorney immediately.
    • Bail and Bond Procedures: We help secure reasonable bail and explain bond conditions.
    • Initial Court Appearances: We help you understand the charges and court procedures from the beginning.

    Pre-Trial Proceedings

    The pre-trial phase is often where cases are won or lost:

    • Discovery and Evidence Review: We examine all evidence the prosecution intends to use against you.
    • Motion Practice: We file motions to suppress evidence, dismiss charges, or limit the prosecution’s case.
    • Plea Negotiations: We negotiate with prosecutors to achieve favorable outcomes for your case.

    Trial and Sentencing

    When trial becomes necessary:

    • Jury Selection: We select jurors who can fairly evaluate your case and the evidence.
    • Trial Strategy: We present compelling defenses and challenge the prosecution’s evidence.
    • Sentencing Alternatives: We advocate for probation, community service, and other alternatives to incarceration.

    Frequently Asked Questions About Theft Charges

    Remain silent, request an attorney immediately, and do not discuss your case with the police without legal representation present. Contact My Dallas Criminal Lawyer at 214-949-4117 for immediate assistance. 

    Yes, with proper legal representation, theft charges can often be dismissed or reduced through various defense strategies and negotiations. We’ve achieved dismissals and reductions in numerous theft cases.

    Theft involves taking property without consent. Burglary requires unlawful entry with intent to commit theft. Robbery involves taking property through force or threat of force.

    Legal fees vary based on case complexity. We offer free consultations to discuss your case and provide transparent fee structures with no hidden costs.

    Yes, theft convictions can significantly impact employment opportunities, especially in retail, finance, and positions requiring trust and integrity.

    Depending on the outcome of your case, you may be eligible for expungement or nondisclosure orders to seal your criminal record from public view.

    Contact Our Frisco Theft Defense Team Today

    Don’t let theft charges derail your future. The sooner you contact an experienced Frisco theft lawyer, the better we can protect your rights and build your defense. At My Dallas Criminal Lawyer, we understand the local courts, prosecutors, and procedures that will determine the outcome of your case.

    Call 214-949-4117 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and begin building your defense immediately. Your future is too important to leave to chance – let our experienced Frisco theft lawyer fight for you.

    Dallas Office Hours
    Our team is available by phone 24/7Office Hours
    Monday8AM – 5PM
    Tuesday8AM – 5PM
    Wednesday8AM – 5PM
    Thursday8AM – 5PM
    Friday8AM – 5PM
    SaturdayClosed
    SundayClosed
    Frisco Office Hours
    Our team is available by phone 24/7Office Hours
    Monday8AM – 5PM
    Tuesday8AM – 5PM
    Wednesday8AM – 5PM
    Thursday8AM – 5PM
    Friday8AM – 5PM
    SaturdayClosed
    SundayClosed