Shoplifting Attorney San Antonio

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Fight Shoplifting Charges in San Antonio

A Criminal Defense Lawyer You Can Count On

The Law Office of John G. Perez Jr. provides trusted shoplifting criminal defense. Our San Antonio criminal law attorney has the experience and knowledge to guide you through the legal system. He works to protect your rights and prevent criminal theft convictions.

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Representation Through the Legal Process

How a Defense Lawyer Can Help With Your Criminal Charges

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American Bar Association
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National Academy of Defense Attorneys
Best of the Best Attorneys -- Top 10 Criminal Defense Attorney 2025

A Fierce Criminal Defense Lawyer in San Antonio

John was born and raised on the south side of San Antonio, where his father taught him to help those who cannot protect themselves. That lesson about standing up for the vulnerable inspired him to pursue a career in criminal defense. San Antonio residents can rely on John. He understands the local legal landscape and will fight tirelessly for their freedom.

John helps clients fight serious shoplifting charges, challenge evidence, and work toward reduced or dismissed criminal convictions. He puts in effort to protect the accused's rights and future. Our legal team is here to support you during this difficult time.

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What Constitutes Shoplifting in Texas?

Shoplifting is legally treated as theft under the Texas Penal Code. Shoplifting happens when someone takes property from a store without intending to pay for it. Shoplifting can include hiding items in your bag, switching price tags, helping someone else steal, or committing refund fraud. You don’t actually have to leave the store to be charged. Any action that shows you planned to take something without paying can lead to shoplifting charges.


Because intent matters, shoplifting cases are often more complex than they appear. This is why even a single incident can lead to a lasting criminal record. If you are accused of shoplifting, it’s important to get help from an experienced San Antonio criminal law attorney. At our legal firm, our capable shoplifting criminal defense lawyer provides legal representation to individuals facing theft charges, working to protect their rights and future.

What Are the Charges for Shoplifting in Bexar County

In Bexar County, shoplifting falls under Texas theft laws. The charge you face depends largely on the value of the item involved. As the value increases, the offense level and potential punishment also increase. Charges may also be escalated for repeat offenses. Penalties can be particularly severe for non-citizens proven guilty of shoplifting, which is considered a crime of moral turpitude, meaning it can lead to deportation. Getting legal guidance is essential if you’ve been charged with committing theft.

Penalties for Shoplifting Charges

The serious consequences you may face increase with the severity of the charge and may include fines, jail time, or prison sentences:

  • Class C Misdemeanor – Fine of up to $500, no jail time
  • Class B Misdemeanor – Up to $2,000 in fines and up to 180 days in jail
  • Class A Misdemeanor – Up to $4,000 in fines and up to one year in jail
  • State Jail Felony – Up to $10,000 in fines and up to two years in a jail facility
  • Third-Degree Felony – Two to ten years in prison and fines of up to $10,000
  • Second-Degree Felony – Two to twenty years in prison and fines of up to $10,000
  • First-Degree Felony – Five years to life in prison and fines of up to $10,000

Even for misdemeanor theft offenses, the impacts can change your life. If you’ve been charged with shoplifting in San Antonio, a San Antonio shoplifting attorney can provide legal assistance, gather evidence, and build a strong defense strategy.

How Your Legal Team Can Reduce Your Shoplifting Charges

Shoplifting charges don’t always lead to a conviction under Texas law. With the right legal strategy, charges may be reduced or dismissed. Here's how a criminal defense attorney can get your theft charges reduced or dropped:

  • Showing Someone Else Committed the Theft – A San Antonio criminal defense attorney may argue misidentification by pointing out unreliable witnesses, unclear surveillance footage, or evidence that does not clearly connect you to the alleged theft.
  • Challenging Weak or Missing Evidence – To reduce your charges, your lawyer will closely review the prosecution’s evidence. They will look for weaknesses, such as missing physical proof, poor-quality video footage, or inconsistent witness statements.
  • Identifying Violations of Your Rights – Illegal searches, failure to read Miranda rights, or improper conduct by law enforcement, including the San Antonio Police Department, can weaken the case against you.
  • Returning the Property – Your lawyer can work to get your charges reduced if the property was returned in good condition by you. This may apply if you truly believed the item was yours and gave it back once you realized the mistake.
  • Statute of Limitations Has Expired – Your lawyer will review the timing of the charges to see if they were filed too late. In Texas, most theft misdemeanors must be charged within two years, and most felonies within three years. If prosecutors missed that deadline, the court may dismiss the case.
  • Applying for a Diversion Program – Your lawyer can apply for a diversion program on your behalf. These programs may include community service, vocational training, or educational classes.

Even with reduced charges, you may still face penalties and a permanent criminal record. To learn more about what to expect from the criminal process in your San Antonio shoplifting case, you should consider hiring an attorney. Our San Antonio shoplifting lawyer at The Law Office of John G. Perez Jr. is ready to help you work to avoid a shoplifting conviction.

Are you facing a shoplifting criminal charge? Contact a San Antonio theft lawyer for experienced legal representation.

Law Office of John G. Perez Jr.