Do I need a lawyer if I was accused of shoplifting in Harris County?

    Yes, in Texas the laws governing shoplifting can be found in the Texas Penal Code section dealing with theft.  Depending on the value that you are accused of taking or attempting to take you could be charged with a class A misdemeanor, Class B misdemeanors, Class C misdemeanor or in certain cases where electronics or high end clothing were involved you may have been charged with a felony offense.

    In any case where you or a loved faces potential jail time and a criminal record that could drastically impact the future you should do everything possible to put up as strong a defense as possible.  You have rights and there are many shoplifting cases where for one reason or another the prosecutors may have a difficult time proving their case beyond a reasonable doubt.  Having a skilled and qualified criminal defense attorney can impact the outcome of the case.

    I believe you should hire an attorney even if you have only been accused of a class C.  Theft is a class C if the value of the item or items is under fifty dollars.  Although it is basically a ticket the problem is with potentially having a theft on your record.  Although currently many employers do not look for class C offenses as it becomes easier and easier to access this information that may change.

    You have rights and we, as experienced Harris County criminal defense attorneys can defend those rights.  Please call us at 713-651-1444 or fill out an online contact form for a free consultation with an experienced Harris County shoplifting attorney.