Grand Theft Attorney in Plano

High-Value Theft Defense Backed by Approximately 7,500 Criminal Matters

Texas doesn’t define grand theft as a separate criminal offense. Allegations commonly described as grand theft are prosecuted under Texas Penal Code Section 31.03. The claimed property value can determine whether the charge is a state jail, third-degree, second-degree, or first-degree felony.

We represent people facing theft investigations, arrests, and filed charges in Plano and throughout Collin County. Attorney Bryan Mac Morris personally handles each case, examining the alleged value, evidence of intent, ownership records, witness accounts, and any statements attributed to the accused.

Protect your rights before answering questions or making decisions about the allegation. Call (972) 846-8214 for a free initial consultation with our theft defense attorney.

Texas Felony Theft Value Thresholds

Theft generally becomes a felony in Texas when the property is valued at $2,500 or more. The classification can affect which court handles the case, the available punishment range, and the decisions required at each stage.

Under the current value schedule in Texas Penal Code Section 31.03, theft is generally classified as:

• State jail felony: $2,500 or more but less than $30,000
• Third-degree felony: $30,000 or more but less than $150,000
• Second-degree felony: $150,000 or more but less than $300,000
• First-degree felony: $300,000 or more

Ordinary confinement or imprisonment ranges extend up to two years for a state jail felony, two to 10 years for a third-degree felony, two to 20 years for a second-degree felony, and five to 99 years or life for a first-degree felony. Statutory exceptions and enhancements may alter the classification or range based on the property, the alleged victim, the circumstances, or prior theft convictions.

District courts generally hear felony criminal cases. An allegation may also be presented to a grand jury, which determines whether probable cause exists to return an indictment. The procedural path depends on whether the matter remains under investigation or has progressed to formal charges.

What the Evidence Must Establish

A theft prosecution generally requires proof that someone unlawfully appropriated property with intent to deprive the owner and without the owner’s effective consent. Effective consent means legally valid permission. Intent to deprive may involve withholding property permanently or long enough that the owner loses a major part of its value or enjoyment, or disposing of it in a way that makes recovery unlikely.

These elements can create disputes that the amount listed in a police report doesn’t resolve. A careful review may examine ownership, possession, permission, identification, valuation methods, and whether the available records accurately reflect the transaction.

Evidence in a felony theft investigation may include:

• Surveillance footage and property-recovery records
• Text messages, emails, and other digital communications
• Contracts, invoices, receipts, and inventory records
• Bank statements and financial transaction records
• Witness statements and statements attributed to the accused
• Appraisals or other evidence used to calculate property value

Related accusations may include fraud, embezzlement, or burglary. Depending on the alleged conduct, investigators may also consider identity-related offenses, organized retail theft, or unauthorized use of a vehicle. Each accusation requires a separate analysis of its statutory elements and supporting proof.

Our Attorney-Led Theft Defense Process

We can become involved during a pre-file investigation, after an arrest, or once formal proceedings have begun. Early representation allows us to assess requests from investigators, identify records that may matter, and explain immediate procedural choices. We don’t assume every case should follow the same strategy.

Our work may include:

• Reviewing the allegation: We examine reports, charging documents, the claimed value, and the asserted felony grade.
• Advising on communications: We explain how to respond to investigators, law enforcement, restitution demands, and requests for records.
• Analyzing the evidence: We evaluate consent, ownership, identification, intent, valuation, and weaknesses in the state’s proof.
• Preparing for proceedings: We develop the defense for negotiations, hearings, applicable grand jury proceedings, or trial.

The appropriate strategy depends on the evidence, alleged loss, prior record, charging instrument, and current stage of the case. We explain how those factors affect your options so you can participate meaningfully in decisions about your defense.

Experience From Approximately 7,500 Criminal Matters

At Law Office of Mac Morris, we have practiced criminal defense since 1995. Bryan Mac Morris has handled approximately 7,500 criminal matters overall and more than 500 cases in court, including proceedings in Texas state and federal systems.

Before practicing law, Bryan worked as a teacher and coach in the Texas public school system. That background informs our approach to client education. We explain the accusation, legal process, available options, and decisions that require your input. Bryan personally manages your case rather than passing it to associates or paralegals.

Discuss Your Felony Theft Allegation With Us

A free initial consultation is an opportunity to discuss whether you’re facing an investigation, arrest, formal charge, indictment, or related property-crime allegation. We can discuss what information is needed to assess the valuation, evidence, procedural posture, and potential next steps.

We serve clients in Plano, Collin County, and surrounding communities, including Frisco and McKinney. You’ll receive direct guidance from the attorney responsible for your case, from the initial review through any negotiations, hearings, or trial preparation.

Call (972) 846-8214 to schedule your free consultation with Law Office of Mac Morris.