Under the Texas Penal Code, theft is defined as unlawfully taking someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. The seriousness of the charge depends largely on the value of the property and the surrounding circumstances.

Understanding how your case is classified is the first step in building a strong, strategic defense.

Petty Theft vs. Felony Theft in Texas

Texas does not formally use the terms “petty theft” and “grand theft” in its statutes, but theft offenses are categorized by value and charged accordingly.

Class C Misdemeanor

Property valued at less than $100

Punishable by a fine up to $500

No jail time

Class B & Class A Misdemeanors

$100–$749 (Class B)

$750–$2,499 (Class A)

Up to 1 year in county jail and fines up to $4,000

State Jail Felony

$2,500–$29,999

180 days to 2 years in state jail

Fines up to $10,000

Third-Degree Felony

$30,000–$149,999

2 to 10 years in prison

Second-Degree Felony

$150,000–$299,999

2 to 20 years in prison

First-Degree Felony

$300,000 or more

5 to 99 years or life in prison

Additional factors—such as prior convictions, theft from elderly individuals, or theft of firearms—can elevate charges regardless of value.

Arlington Criminal Attorneys

3901 Arlington Highlands Blvd, Suite 200

Arlington, TX 76018

(817) 767-0661

https://www.CriminalAttorneysArlingtonTX.com/