Penalties for Shoplifting in Texas

 Posted on April 22, 2025 in Criminal Defense

Getting arrested for shoplifting in Texas may not initially seem like a major problem. However, you may face strict prosecution in court, with irreversible consequences if you are convicted. If you have been charged with shoplifting, the best thing you can do is contact a Texas criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.

At Law Offices of Biederman & Burleson P.L.L.C., we have experience defending against shoplifting charges and other theft crimes. When you work with our firm, we will give you a clear idea of the charges you face, the potential consequences, and how we can defend you. We have the resources and skills to represent you with confidence, protecting your rights in front of a judge.

Potential Fines for Shoplifting

If you are convicted of shoplifting, you could end up paying a hefty fine as a consequence. Shoplifting is prosecuted under Texas’ theft statute, and the fines increase based on the severity of the sentence.

At a minimum, shoplifting is punishable as a Class C misdemeanor, carrying up to $500 in fines. However, you could end up paying as much as $4,000 in fines for Class A misdemeanor shoplifting, which is charged for the theft of $750 or more in merchandise. In addition to the legal fines, you may be ordered to pay restitution to the owner of the store.

Could I Go to Jail for Shoplifting?

Make no mistake – people do go to jail for shoplifting. If you are accused of stealing $100 or more from a store, your punishment could include a jail sentence of up to 180 days. The length of the jail sentences increases with each elevated charge. Having two or more theft convictions on your record can also result in a state jail felony on a conviction, which carries a minimum of 180 days in jail and a maximum of two years.

Losing months or years behind bars can be a major setback. At Law Offices of Biederman & Burleson P.L.L.C., we will do everything we can to help you avoid incarceration for a shoplifting charge.

Does Shoplifting Go On a Criminal Record?

After you serve your sentence, your shoplifting conviction will not simply disappear. Any employer who runs a background check on you will be able to see the crime, and the mere presence of that conviction could seriously restrict your job opportunities.

Furthermore, any shoplifting conviction involving $100 or more in stolen merchandise is not eligible for expunction. This means that unless you have the absolute lowest shoplifting charge, you will not be able to remove the conviction from your record. Our attorneys will put up an aggressive defense on your behalf, exploring all possible avenues to avoid a conviction.

Contact a Frisco, TX Theft Defense Attorney Today

If you have been charged with a crime of retail theft, our Collin County, TX shoplifting defense lawyers can help you fight the charge in court. We will look for ways to mitigate the damage done to you, protecting your best interests with aggressive arguments.

We have over 25 years of combined experience handling criminal charges. Call us at 469-333-3333 to schedule a free consultation today.