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Put A Former Prosecutor On Your Side

Defense Against Theft And Shoplifting Charges In Plano

Stephen H. Miller, Attorney at Law, has represented primarily juvenile offenders in theft and shoplifting cases since 1992. Our attorney, Stephen H. Miller, has more than 35 years of experience in criminal law matters, and he can try to keep an accusation of shoplifting from becoming a final conviction.

Many minors who steal or shoplift don’t do it because they need to. For many, it is a thrill because they think they can get away with it. Do not let one poor decision impact the rest of your child’s life. Call us at 972-578-7097.

Our firm often defends juveniles who are first-time offenders. Many are high school honor roll students who want to go to college. A shoplifting charge can greatly hinder a student’s chances of success in the future.

Our main goal is to try to make sure that this charge or arrest does not become a permanent part of your child’s record if possible. An accusation of shoplifting can negatively affect applications for jobs, insurance, housing and college. If you or your child qualifies, we can help you with expunction or other remedies for sealing or clearing a criminal record.

Minimizing The Consequences Of A Theft Arrest

In Texas, theft may be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the amount or value stolen. Within the tiers of misdemeanor theft, we can also work to minimize the charges and their penalties. From shoplifting to minor thefts, the tiers of Class A through Class B are as follows:

  • Class A misdemeanor: The amount stolen totals between $500 and $1,500. Penalties include up to a year in county jail and/or fines of up to $4,000.
  • Class B misdemeanor: The amount stolen is between $50 and $500 (additional guidelines exist for crimes involving checks). Penalties include up to 180 days in county jail and/or fines of up to $2,000.
  • Class C misdemeanor: The amount stolen is less than $50. Penalties include fines of up to $500.

Whenever possible, we will strive to get theft and shoplifting cases worked out for deferred adjudication. This is a type of community work supervision which, if completed successfully, results in a dismissal of the charge. It is also a prerequisite to file a petition for nondisclosure to seal your criminal record.

For Defense Against Theft And Shoplifting Charges, Call Lawyer Stephen H. Miller

For representation in a theft or shoplifting case, contact Stephen H. Miller, Attorney at Law, in Plano. We can be reached 24 hours a day by phone at 972-578-7097 or reach out to us online.