Theft & Property Crimes
Theft & Property Crimes Attorney
Theft and property crimes include a broad category of charges from shoplifting to trespassing to burglary. Each of these crimes have different aspects along with different penalties. An experienced criminal defense attorney such as Brett Podolsky can explain the different charges and determine the best course for a defense.
There are many different types of theft and property crimes. Below is a list of the ones most commonly charged:
- Shoplifting
- Arson
- Theft through the writing of “bad” checks
- Buying or accepting stolen property
- Trespassing
- Criminal mischief
- Burglary or robbery
The Basic Definition for Theft
The crime of theft is the basic offense involved within the category of theft and property crimes. Most other charges will start from the basic building blocks of theft and then add a few different and separate elements to create a new crime. For a person to commit theft, he must take another person’s property without that person’s consent and with the intent to never return that property. An example of theft would be for a person to take an umbrella from a stranger with no intention of ever giving it back. However, it is not theft to borrow an umbrella from a friend with the intent to return it but to simply forget to do so.
From this basic definition, different elements can be added to it to create new crimes. By adding the element of entering a building to commit theft, it becomes the crime of burglary. For a crime to be robbery, the basic elements of theft are present plus the added element of causing fear or bodily harm in another person.
Consequences for a Theft or Property Crime
Punishments for theft and property crimes may range from as small as a fine to lengthy periods of imprisonment. Theft will either be classified as a misdemeanor or a felony based on the value of the items stolen. Possible punishments for theft or property crimes may include:
- Fines and court costs
- Restitution
- Jail or prison time
- Community supervision
The State of Texas has a Texas Theft Liability Act which, in addition to the criminal penalties that may be imposed, the victim may sue the offender for damages in a civil court. This lawsuit will be separate from the criminal process.
How can Brett A. Podolsky Help?
Houston theft attorney Brett Podolsky is experienced and knowledgeable in defending all types of theft and property crimes. He can effectively evaluate his client’s case and will pursue the best course of action for his client and will fight for his clients to receive the most favorable outcome for their particular case.
