If you have a theft charge in Brazoria County, TX, it is critical that you understand the possible consequences of this type of charge. What these charges entail is very dependent on each individual’s situation and the value of the items that were allegedly stolen. Even if your theft charge seems relatively small, it’s still critical that you understand the possible repercussions and the long-term impact this could have on your personal and professional life.

If you are facing theft charges in Brazoria County, the very first thing you need to do is hire a criminal defense attorney who can help you navigate this legal process. At The Law Offices of Keith G. Allen, PLLC, we are committed to defending our clients, ensuring your rights are upheld and you get the best possible outcome.

Theft Charges in Brazoria County

If someone has filed charges for theft against you, there are several potential consequences you could face if the charges stick. The most common consequences involve jail or prison time and extensive fines. The consequences that you could potentially face are completely dependent on the category of theft, which is dependent on the value of the stolen property.

• Class C misdemeanor: Stolen property valued at less than $100 comes with a fine of up to $500.
• Class B misdemeanor: Stolen property valued at $100 or more but less than $750 comes with up to 180 days in jail and up to $2000 in fines.
• Class A misdemeanor: Stolen property valued at $750 up to $2500 comes with up to a year in jail and up to $4000 in fines.
• State jail felony: Stolen property valued at $2500 up to $30,000 comes with 180 days to two years in a state jail facility and up to $10,000 in fines.
• Third-degree felony: Stolen property valued at $30,000 up to $150,000 comes with 2 to 10 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines.
• Second-degree felony: Stolen property valued at $150,000 up to $300,000 comes with 2 to 20 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines.
• First-degree felony: Stolen property valued above $300,000 comes with 5 to 99 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines.

Keep in mind that there are some special circumstances that can make the potential charges different depending on each case. For instance, someone can face second-degree felony charges if they steal an ATM even if it is not necessarily valued between $150,000 and $300,000.

Long-Term Consequences of Theft Charges

It is important to know how to fight a theft charge in Brazoria County since these types of charges have long-term repercussions. There are many career and personal life repercussions you could face, whether you are actually charged with theft or if the charges are ultimately dropped.

The main consequence is that there is a social stigma around any type of criminal charges that can make your personal life more difficult. You may lose friends, miss out on job opportunities, or face public scrutiny or distrust.

If you are charged with theft, this will go on your criminal record, which can follow you around for a very long time. This can result in you not being able to rent housing, pursue specific careers, or maintain your right to bear a firearm.

How to Get Criminal Theft Charges Dropped

Depending on the circumstances around your theft charges, you may be able to fight these charges and have them dropped or have the repercussions lessened. Here are some factors that can lead to dropped or reduced charges:

• Insufficient evidence: Any type of charge in Texas will be dropped if it is deemed that there is not enough evidence to prove guilt. This can include a lack of evidence showing that you were the person who stole the item or the witnesses being used against you may not be credible.
• Rights violations: Even if you are suspected of theft, you still have certain rights that have to be upheld throughout this legal process. If it is found that law enforcement violated your rights during the arrest, search, or interrogation, some of the evidence can be excluded. This is why it is critical that you hire a criminal defense attorney who can help show that your rights were not upheld.
• Pretrial diversion: Brazoria County now has a pretrial diversion program that allows certain defendants to have their charges dropped if they meet the eligibility requirements. These requirements usually include being a first-time offender and not having previously been granted pretrial diversion.
• Restitution: An option you may have for theft charges is to use a restitution plan that allows you to pay back to the victim the value of the item that was stolen. 
• Plea deal: Your criminal defense attorney can help you navigate the option of accepting a plea deal that may lessen the repercussions of being accused of theft. 
• Mitigating circumstances: Mitigating circumstances include situations where the charges may not necessarily fit the crime or the situation. Examples of when mitigating circumstances may apply include situations involving entrapment or when the defendant has a mental incapacity.

Having Charges Expunged

Another great option for those who have faced theft charges is to have the charge expunged from your record. You can qualify for this if you meet one of these eligibility requirements:

• You were acquitted at trial.
• The case was dismissed.
• You received a pardon.
• You successfully completed a PreTrial Diversion Program.
• You were never prosecuted and the statute limitations for the alleged crime has expired.

For the Best Criminal Defense in Brazoria County, Contact The Law Offices of Keith G. Allen, PLLC

Facing criminal theft charges in Brazoria County can feel very intimidating, especially since the consequences can be very different depending on the situation. The good news is that there are several legal avenues you can take, some of which can even result in the charges being expunged. At The Law Offices of Keith G. Allen, PLLC, we have extensive experience navigating criminal defense cases. We can represent you and your theft case, ensuring your rights are upheld, and you have the best chance at getting a positive outcome. If you are looking for a compassionate and experienced criminal defense representation, contact us today at 832-230-0075 for a free consultation.