Harris County Grand Larceny Lawyer

Harris County Grand Larceny Attorney

Being accused of grand larceny can be a stressful, embarrassing, and sometimes infuriating situation. Regardless of your guilt or innocence, you should take the proper steps to protect yourself against any accusations that could tarnish your name or reputation. If you are dealing with an accusation or charge of grand larceny, you will want to retain the services of a Harris County grand larceny lawyer and determine what your next steps will be.

The most serious theft charges in Harris County are often referred to as grand larceny or grand theft. These charges are among the most serious property crimes in Texas and can result in the longest possible sentence under state law, life in prison. Your defense to this offense is critical and deserves the attention, dedication, and skill of a Houston grand larceny lawyer.

At Greco Neyland, we handle all types of criminal charges for theft, shoplifting, and grand larceny. Our team isn’t just experienced in these case, we are also successful. We’ve built a strong track record of good outcomes in Harris County, which extends across all types of crimes and accusations.

Best Harris County Grand Larceny Attorney

The Texas Penal Code criminalizes all theft offenses in Harris County, including grand larceny or grand theft. This set of statutes doesn’t specifically define grand larceny, but rather has a comprehensive theft law that covers all variety and severity of thefts in the state. Places like Harris County and Houston apply these laws through local law enforcement and prosecutors.

Theft is a broad crime in Harris County. The laws say that theft is anytime an individual:

1. unlawfully appropriates;
2. property belonging to another person;
3. with the intent to withhold the property or keep it from the rightful owner.

Grand larceny typically applies to those theft offenses in Harris County that are grave enough to be felony offenses. The theft of property valued over $20,000 is always a felony offense and considered grand larceny, while lesser charges would be called shoplifting, petty theft, or simply, theft.

Punishment for a Grand Larceny Conviction in Harris County

A grand larceny conviction comes with steep criminal punishment. Depending on the severity of the charges, this can include payment of a fine and/or a prison sentence. A Harris County court can take several factors into consideration when deciding the length and amount of a sentence for grand larceny, but one factor is usually determinative. The value of the stolen property frequently dictates the length of incarceration and amount of the fine.

• Felony in the third degree is grand larceny of property valued at $20,000, but less than $100,000.
• Felony in the second degree is grand larceny of property valued at $100,000, but less than $200,000.
• Felony in the first degree is grand larceny of property valued at $200,00 or more.

The most serious grand larceny charge is for a felony in the first degree. This offense can lead to a maximum 99 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000.

Usually, we just think of the punishment for a crime as the sentence handed down in court, but there are wider and longer lasting punishments. A grand larceny conviction in Harris County can mean the loss of job opportunities and strain on personal relationships. Potential employers or landlords may discriminate against those with a criminal record. It could also mean losing a professional license or pay major costs imposed by an administrative body.

These other impacts of grand larceny in Harris County are additional reasons to ensure you have a robust defense by a Harris County lawyer.

FAQs

Q: How Much Money Is Grand Larceny in Texas?

A: Theft crimes can differ widely in Texas, and a grand larceny conviction can vary depending on the amount that was stolen and how willing the prosecution is to pursue a charge of grand larceny. If the amount that was stolen is less than $2,500, the theft could be considered a misdemeanor. If the number exceeds $2,500, it may be considered a felony theft, e.g., a type of grand larceny. If it reaches $300,000, then you may be looking at life in prison.

Q: What Is a Defense Against a Charge of Grand Larceny?

A: There are several ways to defend yourself against a charge of grand larceny, but the most effective one is a lack of intent. In order to prove grand larceny, the prosecution must first establish intent. If your lawyer can successfully prove that you never intended to commit such a crime, you can use that as a viable defense. Maybe it was a mistake, or you had intended to return the item in question once you realized you had it.

Q: What Is the Statute of Limitations on Grand Larceny in Texas?

A: The current statute of limitations regarding grand larceny charges in Texas is five years. Most robberies and significant thefts have a five-year time frame starting on the date that the alleged crime in question took place. Once that five-year period has passed, you can no longer be charged with the specific crime that may have taken place. If you leave the state of Texas during that time, any time spent outside the state may not count toward those five years.

Q: When Is Larceny Considered a Felony in Texas?

A: Larceny is considered a felony in Texas and begins when the value of any stolen property is determined to be at least $2,500. Once that threshold is reached, the higher the value of any stolen property, the higher the penalties become. Theft is still a Class A misdemeanor if stolen property has a value of $750 – $2,500. Once a stolen property value of $300,000 is reached, it becomes a first-degree felony.

Find a Top Grand Larceny Lawyer in Harris County

When facing grand larceny charges, you’ll want someone in your corner with a deep understanding of criminal laws, particularly those regarding theft in Texas. The legal team at Greco Neyland knows how to help and can offer you a solid defense, as well as sound legal counsel. Our attorneys have vast experience in the field of criminal defense, and we’ve represented many clients facing similar charges.

Your choice of legal representation to grand larceny charges is very important. The grand larceny lawyer in Harris County that takes your case is responsible for securing your rights, privileges, and providing representation before the court.

At Greco Neyland, we recognize the responsibility of a Harris County criminal lawyer and take it seriously in every case. Whether you are facing no jail time for petty theft or fifteen years for grand larceny, we’ll provide the best possible defense in your case.