Legal Question in Criminal Law in Texas

shoplifting in Texas

My sister was caught shoplifting some items valued at around $90. She is no longer a minor (being 20). I am doing preliminary research to see what steps we need to take before this gets to a hearing. She is a first time offender and, being scared out of her wits, will probably never commit crime again. What are her options and what could happen to her. The police kept mentioning a jail sentence. Is this avoidable?


Asked on 2/27/98, 9:42 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
Gerald McDougall Law Office of Gerald McDougall

Misdemeanor theft in Texas

First of all, this message is not intended as legal advice and no attorney-client elationship is intended. All information is based solely on the facts provided by the original message.

Theft of this level is a Class B misdemeanor punishable by up to 180 days in jail and/or a $2,000.00 fine.

In most cases a decent criminal defender can get something like deferred adjudication or probation, and in the right case, deferred prosecution. A lot of county attorneys will deal generously. But get a lawyer in NOW.

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Answered on 3/01/98, 8:31 pm
David Sergi Sergi and Associates PLLC

Shoplifting in Texas

Your sister is charged with a class b misdemeanor.Depending on where she is charged, I think she can escapeany serious consequense if she is contrite and you hire a lawyer locallywho knows the ropes. The problem she has if she pleads totheft is that it is a crime of moral terpitutewhich can have serious long term consequenses. For the name of a good local attorney call the texas Criminal Defence Lawyers Associationin Austin. If this matter is pending in Travis,Hays or Caldwell county please give me a call.

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Answered on 3/01/98, 9:57 pm


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