

Know your rights: Theft charges in Texas range from petty shoplifting to felony offenses—get the legal defense you deserve.
In Texas, theft is defined under Texas Penal Code § 31.03 as the unlawful appropriation of property with intent to deprive the owner of it. But that simple definition masks a wide range of possible charges—from shoplifting a T-shirt to stealing corporate funds. The consequences vary significantly depending on the value of the property, the method of theft, and whether aggravating factors are involved.
In this guide, we break down the different types of theft charges in Texas, the applicable laws, penalties, and why having an experienced Texas theft defense attorney is critical to protecting your rights.
Types of Theft Charges in Texas
1. Misdemeanor Theft (Sometimes Referred to as “Petty Theft”)
Legal Definition: Theft of property valued at less than $2,500, under Tex. Penal Code § 31.03(e).
Charge Level and Penalties:
- Class C Misdemeanor: Property worth less than $100
• Fine up to $500 - Class B Misdemeanor: $100 to $749 or if the defendant has a prior theft conviction
• Up to 180 days in jail and a $2,000 fine - Class A Misdemeanor: $750 to $2,499
• Up to 1 year in county jail and a $4,000 fine
2. Felony Theft (Including Aggravated Theft)
Legal Definition: Theft becomes a felony when the value of the stolen property exceeds $2,500 or involves certain protected items, like firearms, livestock, or election ballots.
Felony Theft Levels:
- State Jail Felony: $2,500–$29,999
• 180 days to 2 years in state jail, up to $10,000 fine - Third-Degree Felony: $30,000–$149,999
• 2–10 years in prison
Second-Degree Felony: $150,000–$299,999
• 2–20 years in prison - First-Degree Felony: $300,000 or more
• 5–99 years or life imprisonment
Aggravating Circumstances:
- Offense against elderly or nonprofit entities
- Use of deception or breach of fiduciary duty
- Use of a weapon (often charged separately or elevates to robbery)
3. Robbery and Burglary: Theft With Force or Intrusion
Although distinct offenses, robbery and burglary often stem from theft-related conduct and are charged under separate statutes:
Robbery – Tex. Penal Code § 29.02
- Involves intentionally or knowingly causing bodily injury or threatening another while committing theft.
- Second-Degree Felony: 2–20 years in prison
Aggravated Robbery – Tex. Penal Code § 29.03
- Use of a deadly weapon, serious bodily injury, or offense against elderly/disabled person.
- First-Degree Felony: 5–99 years or life imprisonment
Burglary – Tex. Penal Code § 30.02
- Entering a building without consent with intent to commit theft, assault, or another felony.
- Can range from a State Jail Felony (uninhabited buildings) to a First-Degree Felony (habitations with intent to commit felony).
4. Shoplifting
Shoplifting is a form of theft prosecuted under the same § 31.03 statute, but it frequently involves unique elements like store surveillance, witness statements, and security procedures.
Factors Affecting the Charge:
- Value of merchandise
- Use of devices to shield items from detection (which may elevate charge to Organized Retail Theft under Tex. Penal Code § 31.16)
- Prior convictions can increase punishment range
Diversion Programs: In some counties (and in Tarrant County, Texas), first-time offenders may be eligible for pretrial diversion or deferred adjudication, avoiding a conviction if successfully completed.
5. Receiving or Possessing Stolen Property
Texas law treats knowingly receiving or possessing stolen property the same as stealing it, under Tex. Penal Code § 31.03(b).
Prosecution Must Prove:
- Property was stolen
- Defendant knew or should have known it was stolen
Penalty Level: Based on value of property and criminal history, ranges from Class C misdemeanor to first-degree felony
Penalties for Theft in Texas: A Breakdown
- Value of Property: The main driver of the charge level—from minor fines to multi-decade prison sentences.
- Prior Convictions: Repeat offenses often elevate even low-value thefts to higher classes of misdemeanors or felonies.
- Special Victims or Circumstances:
- Nonprofits, elderly, or public servants may trigger enhanced penalties under Tex. Penal Code § 31.03(f)
- Restitution and Civil Liability: Courts often order restitution, and under the Texas Theft Liability Act (Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 134.001), victims can sue offenders for civil damages.
Why You Need a Skilled Theft Defense Attorney in Texas
Theft charges may seem straightforward, but legal defenses are often nuanced:
- Lack of intent to permanently deprive
- Mistake of fact (believing the item belonged to you)
- Illegal search or seizure (4th Amendment violations)
- Coercion or duress
An experienced Texas theft lawyer can:
- Assess the prosecution’s evidence
- Challenge constitutional violations
- Negotiate a reduction or dismissal
- Fight for a favorable plea or trial outcome
At the HLAW Firm, we take a client-centered approach to every criminal case. Whether you’re a first-time offender or facing felony theft, we’re here to protect your rights and your future.
Conclusion
Theft charges in Texas cover a wide spectrum—from simple shoplifting to major corporate embezzlement. But regardless of the value or circumstances, a conviction can carry serious consequences for your freedom, record, and reputation.
If you’re facing any type of theft charge, don’t navigate the legal system alone. Contact the HLAW Firm today to schedule a confidential case review and get the strong, experienced representation you deserve.