Kerrville Theft Attorney

Being charged with theft in Texas is a serious matter that can carry harsh penalties and long-lasting consequences. Even a relatively minor theft accusation can damage your reputation, affect your employment opportunities, and result in a permanent criminal record. At Cofer & Connelly, PLLC, our experienced Kerrville theft attorneys provide strong, strategic defense for individuals facing theft charges in Kerr County and across Texas.

With more than 100 years of combined legal experience, our team—including former prosecutors and judges—has the insight, skill, and dedication needed to fight for your rights and protect your future.

Don’t face theft accusations alone. Contact Cofer & Connelly, PLLC today at (512) 991-0576 or via our online form for a free, confidential consultation.

What Is Considered Theft in Texas?

Under Texas Penal Code §31.03, theft occurs when someone unlawfully appropriates property belonging to another with the intent to deprive the owner of it. Theft doesn’t always mean physically taking an item—it can also involve deception, misrepresentation, or misuse of entrusted funds.

In Kerrville, theft charges can arise from many different situations, from shoplifting at a retail store to more complex white-collar theft allegations.

Common Types of Theft Crimes

At Cofer & Connelly, PLLC, we represent clients accused of all types of theft offenses, including:

• Shoplifting: Taking merchandise from a store without paying, switching price tags, or concealing items.
• Burglary: Entering a building or vehicle unlawfully with intent to commit theft or another felony.
• Robbery: Theft combined with force, threats, or intimidation against a victim, sometimes involving a weapon.
• Identity Theft: Using another person’s identifying information, such as Social Security numbers or credit card details, without consent.
• Embezzlement:  Misappropriating money or property entrusted to you, often in the workplace.
• Receiving Stolen Property: Possessing or buying property you know—or should reasonably know—was stolen.

Each type of theft charge carries its own legal complexities, and the penalties depend heavily on the circumstances.

Penalties for Theft in Texas

The severity of theft charges depends primarily on the value of the property involved. Penalties range from fines to decades in prison:

• Class C Misdemeanor: Theft of property under $100; punishable by a fine up to $500.
• Class B Misdemeanor: Theft of $100 to $749; up to 180 days in jail and a $2,000 fine.
• Class A Misdemeanor: Theft of $750 to $2,499; up to 1 year in jail and a $4,000 fine.
• State Jail Felony: Theft of $2,500 to $29,999; 180 days to 2 years in state jail and a $10,000 fine.
• Third-Degree Felony: Theft of $30,000 to $149,999; 2 to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
• Second-Degree Felony: Theft of $150,000 to $299,999; 2 to 20 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
• First-Degree Felony: Theft of $300,000 or more; 5 to 99 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

Beyond fines and imprisonment, a theft conviction can severely impact your ability to get a job, obtain housing, or even maintain certain professional licenses.

Defenses Against Theft Charges

Being charged with theft does not mean you will be convicted. At Cofer & Connelly, PLLC, we carefully review the evidence and build a tailored defense strategy. Common defenses include:

• Lack of Intent: Theft requires intent. If you believed you had the right to the property or took it by mistake, intent may be absent.
• Mistake of Fact: If you reasonably believed the property belonged to you, this can be a strong defense.
• Consent: If the property owner gave you permission to use or take the item, no theft occurred.
• Duress: If you were forced to commit the theft under immediate threat, you may be excused.
• Insufficient Evidence: The state must prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt. Weak evidence, unreliable witnesses, or procedural errors can result in reduced charges or dismissal.
• Entrapment: If law enforcement pressured you into committing theft you otherwise would not have committed, entrapment may apply.

Our Kerrville theft lawyers are skilled at identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and using them to your advantage.

Steps to Take If You’re Charged with Theft

If you’ve been accused of theft in Kerrville, the actions you take immediately after your arrest can significantly impact your case:

1. Stay Calm: Avoid confrontation and do not make statements to law enforcement.
2. Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent: Anything you say can and will be used against you.
3. Contact an Attorney Immediately: The sooner you involve a lawyer, the stronger your defense can be.
4. Preserve Evidence: Keep records, receipts, or witness contact information that could help prove your innocence.

Why Choose Cofer & Connelly, PLLC?

When your freedom and reputation are at stake, you need more than just an attorney—you need a proven advocate. Our firm stands out because:

• Extensive Trial Experience: With backgrounds as former judges and prosecutors, we understand how the other side thinks.
• Proven Reputation: Recognized among Texas’s top criminal defense firms, we have a strong record of results.
• Personalized Defense: We take the time to understand your unique situation and build a strategy tailored to your needs.
• Local Knowledge: Serving clients in Kerrville and Kerr County, we are familiar with local courts and legal procedures.

Our goal is not only to defend you in court but also to protect your future from the long-lasting effects of a theft conviction.

Contact a Kerrville Theft Attorney Today

An accusation is not the same as a conviction. With the right legal team on your side, you can fight theft charges and work toward the best possible outcome.

At Cofer & Connelly, PLLC, we provide aggressive defense, compassionate guidance, and unwavering support to clients accused of theft crimes in Kerrville and throughout Texas.

Call us today at (512) 991-0576 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation with a skilled Kerrville theft attorney.

FAQs

What Types of Theft Charges Are Most Common in Kerrville?

Theft charges most often seen in Kerrville include shoplifting, burglary, theft by check, and auto theft. The specific facts of each case—including property value and how the alleged theft occurred—play a major role in charging and penalties.

How Are Theft Cases Prosecuted in Kerrville?

The Kerr County District Attorney’s Office prosecutes most theft cases, following Texas Penal Code statutes. Accused individuals will have their cases heard in the Kerr County Courthouse, and local procedures may affect case timelines and options.

Will a Theft Conviction Always Result in Jail Time?

Jail time is not automatic in every theft case. For first offenses and less serious charges, options like probation, restitution, or entry into diversion programs may be available, depending on the unique circumstances and legal history of the individual.

What Should I Do If I Am Contacted About a Theft Investigation?

It’s vital to remain silent about the allegations and to speak with a theft attorney before answering questions or making statements. Getting prompt legal counsel helps protect your rights and prevents mistakes early in the process.

Can a Theft Charge Be Expunged from My Record in Texas?

Only certain theft cases—typically those that end in dismissal or a not-guilty verdict—may be eligible for expunction. The requirements are specific, so it’s important to consult with a qualified theft lawyer to review your options in detail.