Houston Theft and Burglary Defense Attorney | Aaron Chapman Law
Facing Theft or Burglary Charges in Houston? Aaron Chapman Law Can Help
Being charged with theft or burglary in Houston, Texas, can turn your life upside down. A conviction can lead to jail time, hefty fines, a permanent criminal record, and lasting damage to your reputation and career. If you or a loved one is facing theft or burglary charges in Houston, you need an experienced Houston criminal defense attorney who will fight aggressively to protect your rights and your future.
Aaron Chapman, founder of Aaron Chapman Law, is a dedicated Houston theft defense lawyer with a proven track record of defending clients against all levels of theft and burglary charges throughout Harris County and the greater Houston area.
Understanding Theft Charges in Texas
Under Texas Penal Code § 31.03, theft occurs when a person unlawfully appropriates property with the intent to deprive the owner of that property. In simpler terms, theft means taking something that doesn’t belong to you without the owner’s consent.
What many people don’t realize is that theft in Texas covers a wide range of offenses, and the penalties vary dramatically depending on the value of the property involved and the circumstances surrounding the alleged crime.
Classifications of Theft in Texas
Texas classifies theft offenses based on the dollar value of the stolen property:
- Class C Misdemeanor – Property valued at less than $100
- Class B Misdemeanor – Property valued between $100 and $750
- Class A Misdemeanor – Property valued between $750 and $2,500
- State Jail Felony – Property valued between $2,500 and $30,000
- Third-Degree Felony – Property valued between $30,000 and $150,000
- Second-Degree Felony – Property valued between $150,000 and $300,000
- First-Degree Felony – Property valued at $300,000 or more
Certain circumstances can also elevate the severity of charges, such as theft from an elderly person, theft of a firearm, or theft by a public servant.
Common Types of Theft Charges in Houston
As a leading criminal defense lawyer in Houston, Aaron Chapman handles all types of theft cases, including:
- Shoplifting (retail theft)
- Employee theft / embezzlement
- Identity theft
- Auto theft
- Theft of services
- Mail theft
- Theft by check
- Receiving or possessing stolen property
- Organized retail theft
No matter what type of theft charge you’re facing, Aaron Chapman Law has the knowledge and experience to build a strong defense on your behalf.
Understanding Burglary Charges in Texas
Burglary is one of the most serious property crimes in Texas and is treated far more harshly than simple theft. Under Texas Penal Code § 30.02, burglary occurs when a person enters a building, habitation, or vehicle — without the effective consent of the owner — with the intent to commit a felony, theft, or assault inside.
It’s important to note that you do not have to actually steal anything to be charged with burglary. The mere act of entering a structure with criminal intent is enough to support a burglary charge.
Types of Burglary in Texas
- Burglary of a Building (State Jail Felony) – Entering a commercial building or structure with intent to commit theft, a felony, or assault. Punishable by 180 days to 2 years in a state jail facility and fines up to $10,000.
- Burglary of a Habitation (Second-Degree Felony) – Entering a home, apartment, or any structure designed for overnight accommodation with criminal intent. Punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and fines up to $10,000. This charge can be elevated to a first-degree felony if the intent was to commit a felony other than theft, carrying a sentence of 5 to 99 years in prison.
- Burglary of a Vehicle (Class A Misdemeanor or State Jail Felony) – Entering a vehicle without consent with intent to commit theft or a felony. Repeat offenses or prior convictions can elevate this to a felony charge.
Burglary vs. Robbery: What’s the Difference?
Many people confuse burglary with robbery. While both are serious crimes, they are legally distinct:
- Burglary involves unlawfully entering a structure with criminal intent.
- Robbery involves taking property directly from another person through force or the threat of force.
Both carry severe penalties, and both require the immediate attention of a skilled Houston burglary defense attorney like Aaron Chapman.
Penalties for Theft and Burglary Convictions in Houston
The consequences of a theft or burglary conviction in Texas can be devastating:
| Charge Level | Potential Jail/Prison Time | Maximum Fine |
|---|---|---|
| Class C Misdemeanor | No jail time | $500 |
| Class B Misdemeanor | Up to 180 days in jail | $2,000 |
| Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year in jail | $4,000 |
| State Jail Felony | 180 days – 2 years in state jail | $10,000 |
| Third-Degree Felony | 2 – 10 years in prison | $10,000 |
| Second-Degree Felony | 2 – 20 years in prison | $10,000 |
| First-Degree Felony | 5 – 99 years or life in prison | $10,000 |
Beyond incarceration and fines, a conviction can result in:
- A permanent criminal record
- Difficulty finding employment
- Loss of professional licenses
- Damage to your reputation in the Houston community
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens
- Loss of gun rights (for felony convictions)
- Difficulty securing housing
Don’t let a theft or burglary charge define your future. Contact Aaron Chapman Law today for a confidential consultation.
How Aaron Chapman Defends Against Theft and Burglary Charges
When you hire Aaron Chapman as your Houston criminal defense attorney, you’re getting a legal advocate who will leave no stone unturned in building your defense. Aaron takes a strategic, detail-oriented approach to every case, including:
Thorough Case Investigation
Aaron personally reviews every piece of evidence — surveillance footage, police reports, witness statements, and forensic evidence — to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
Common Defense Strategies
Depending on the facts of your case, Aaron Chapman may employ one or more of the following defense strategies:
- Lack of intent – Proving you did not intend to steal or commit a crime inside a structure
- Mistaken identity – Demonstrating that you were wrongly identified as the suspect
- Consent – Showing that you had permission to take the property or enter the premises
- Insufficient evidence – Arguing that the prosecution cannot prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt
- Constitutional violations – Challenging unlawful searches, seizures, or violations of your Miranda rights
- Duress or coercion – Demonstrating that you were forced to commit the act under threat
- Return of property / lack of deprivation – Arguing that you intended to return the property
Negotiation and Trial Advocacy
While Aaron Chapman is always prepared to take your case to trial before a Harris County jury, he also understands that many cases can be resolved through skillful negotiation. Depending on the circumstances, he may pursue:
- Case dismissal
- Charge reduction (e.g., reducing a felony to a misdemeanor)
- Deferred adjudication or probation
- Pre-trial diversion programs
- Expunction or nondisclosure of your record after successful completion of your sentence
Why Choose Aaron Chapman as Your Houston Theft & Burglary Lawyer?
Not all criminal defense attorneys are created equal. Here’s what sets Aaron Chapman Law apart:
Local Knowledge – Aaron Chapman practices law in Houston and understands the Harris County court system, local prosecutors, and judges. This insider knowledge gives his clients a strategic advantage.
Client-Centered Approach – At Aaron Chapman Law, you’re not just a case number. Aaron takes the time to listen to your story, understand your concerns, and keep you informed every step of the way.
Aggressive Representation – Whether negotiating a plea deal or fighting in the courtroom, Aaron Chapman is known for his tenacious advocacy on behalf of his clients.
Experienced Defense – From misdemeanor shoplifting charges to first-degree felony burglary of a habitation, Aaron Chapman has the experience to handle cases at every level of severity.
Confidential Consultations – Your initial consultation is private and confidential. Aaron will evaluate your case honestly and help you understand your options without judgment.
Arrested for Theft or Burglary in Houston? Here’s What to Do
If you’ve been arrested or charged with theft or burglary in Houston, follow these critical steps:
- Exercise your right to remain silent. Do not speak to police without an attorney present. Anything you say can and will be used against you.
- Do not consent to searches. You have the right to refuse a search of your person, vehicle, or home without a warrant.
- Contact a Houston criminal defense attorney immediately. The earlier you involve a lawyer, the better your chances of a favorable outcome.
- Do not discuss your case on social media. Prosecutors can use your online activity as evidence.
- Call Aaron Chapman Law. Aaron will begin working on your defense right away, protecting your rights from day one.
Serving All of Houston and Surrounding Areas
Aaron Chapman Law proudly represents clients facing theft and burglary charges throughout the Houston metropolitan area, including:
- Harris County
- Fort Bend County
- Montgomery County
- Galveston County
- Brazoria County
- Downtown Houston
- The Woodlands
- Sugar Land
- Katy
- Pearland
- Pasadena
- Spring
- Cypress
- Humble
- Baytown
- League City
- Conroe
No matter where in the greater Houston area you were arrested, Aaron Chapman is ready to defend you.
Contact Aaron Chapman Law Today | Houston Theft and Burglary Defense Attorney
If you or someone you love is facing theft charges in Houston or burglary charges in Houston, time is of the essence. The prosecution is already building a case against you — you need a dedicated Houston criminal defense lawyer in your corner who will fight for your freedom.
Aaron Chapman at Aaron Chapman Law is ready to stand by your side, protect your rights, and pursue the best possible outcome for your case.
Call Aaron Chapman Law today for a confidential consultation.
Don’t wait. Your future is too important.
Aaron Chapman Law is a Houston-based criminal defense law firm serving clients throughout Harris County and the greater Houston area. Attorney Aaron Chapman is committed to providing aggressive, personalized legal representation to individuals charged with theft, burglary, and other criminal offenses in Texas.