What is Considered Property Crime in Texas?

If you or someone you know has been charged with a property crime in Houston, Texas, it is essential to understand the seriousness of these allegations and the potential consequences. Property crimes encompass a wide range of offenses that involve damaging or unlawfully taking another person’s property without their consent. Prosecutors aggressively pursue these cases, and having a skilled and experienced criminal defense attorney by your side is crucial to protect your rights and build a strong defense.

Types of Property Crimes

Property crimes refer to various unlawful acts committed against someone’s possessions. Some common types of property crimes include:

• Burglary: The act of entering a building unlawfully with the intent to commit theft or any other felony.
• Theft: Unauthorized taking or using someone else’s property without their permission with the intention to deprive them of its ownership.
• Robbery: Taking personal property from another person directly and forcefully through intimidation, violence, or threats that cause the person to fear for their safety.
• Trespassing: Entering onto private land without permission from the owner.
• Criminal mischief: A crime involving intentionally defacing, damaging, or destroying another person’s property.
• Fraud: An offense involving deceptive practices aimed at a wrongful gain by manipulating others into giving up money or assets. This offense may involve dishonest acts such as identity theft, forgery, etc.

The Consequences of Property Crimes

In Houston, being convicted of a property crime may lead to severe consequences that can impact multiple aspects of your life. The specific penalties depend on the nature and severity of the offense, as well as any prior criminal offenses on your record. Listed below are just some of the repercussions that can result from a property crime conviction:

• Fines: Property crime offenses often carry significant financial consequences, including fines that can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
• Probation: Instead of jail or prison time, a court may impose probationary periods requiring regular check-ins with a probation officer and adherence to certain conditions.
• Restitution: If you are found guilty of property damage or theft, you may be required to compensate the victim for their losses by reimbursing them for any damages incurred.
• Jail/prison time: Depending on the severity of the charges, a conviction could result in incarceration varying from several months to multiple years.

The Importance of Hiring an Experienced Defense Attorney

Attempting to defend against property crime charges without proper legal representation will put you at a significant disadvantage. At Bennett & Bennett, our experienced criminal defense attorneys work diligently to protect your constitutional rights, and we will help you determine the best strategy that will allow you to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

When working with attorneys Mark Bennett and Jennifer Bennett, you can expect the following in your representation:

• In-depth knowledge: Our experienced attorneys understand the laws related to property crimes, and we know how these cases are handled within Houston’s local legal system. Our team possesses extensive knowledge regarding relevant laws, legal strategies, and potential defenses unique to each situation.
• Evidence evaluation and preparation: Our attorneys will conduct a thorough investigation into all aspects of your case. This includes carefully reviewing evidence presented by prosecutors, such as police reports, surveillance footage, or witness statements. These details inform the development of your defense strategy, and they may help us poke holes in the prosecution’s arguments or uncover mitigating factors.
• Strategic negotiation and representation: If the prosecution offers a plea deal, we will assess its fairness based on the strengths and weaknesses of the case. Our attorneys will act as your advocate throughout any negotiations to help you reduce the charges or penalties you may face. If the case does go to trial, our team will be with you every step of the way, working diligently to build the best possible defense.

Contact Our Accomplished Houston Property Crime Defense Attorneys

If you are facing property crime charges in Houston, Texas, it is crucial not to take any chances with your future. At Bennett & Bennett, we understand the complexities and challenges that come with these allegations. Our dedicated team works tirelessly to defend clients facing property crimes and provide them with the best possible legal support. To schedule a confidential consultation, contact us today at 713-224-1747.