The dollar amount on the charging document is the single biggest factor in a Texas theft case — it’s the difference between a fine and a felony, and prosecutors don’t always get that number right the first time. A Houston theft lawyer can make sure you’re not paying for an inflated valuation.
How Texas Grades Theft by Value
- Class C misdemeanor: Under $100 — fine only, no jail time.
- Class B misdemeanor: $100–$749 — up to 180 days in jail.
- Class A misdemeanor: $750–$2,499 — up to one year in jail.
- State jail felony: $2,500–$29,999 — 180 days to 2 years.
- Third-degree felony: $30,000–$149,999 — 2 to 10 years.
- First-degree felony: $300,000 or more — 5 to 99 years or life.
When Theft Is a Felony Regardless of Value
Theft from a person, theft of a firearm, theft of a catalytic converter, theft from an elderly individual or nonprofit, and repeat offenses with two or more prior theft convictions are all automatically bumped to state jail felony status — no matter how small the value.
Where Theft Cases Are Won
Valuation disputes, ownership and consent questions, and whether you had the intent to permanently deprive someone of property, as opposed to a misunderstanding, are the recurring battlegrounds in these cases.
Charged With Theft? Contact Blass Law Now
Contact Blass Law for a confidential case evaluation or call (713)-664-4000 — the classification on your charge isn’t always the final word.
Related Charges
- Criminal Mischief
- Burglary
- Disorderly Conduct
- Possession of a Fake ID
- All Criminal Defense Practice Areas
Reviewed by Jay Blass Cohen, founder of Blass Law PLLC — ACS-CHAL Forensic Lawyer-Scientist, certified Drug Recognition Expert, and SFST instructor, serving Houston since 2009. This article is general information, not legal advice for your situation. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.