Petty Theft is defined as a theft crime distinguished by low value, in Texas theft of property worth less than $100 is the lowest level theft offense. It’s a Class C Misdemeanor punishable by up to a $500 fine but no jail time. The severity of the charge and associated punishment increases with the value of the stolen property. For example, theft of property worth more than $2,500 is a state jail felony in Texas.
Though it’s not a high-level crime, having a petty theft charge on your record can cause serious problems. While all convictions carry negative consequences, employers have shown themselves to be more likely to pass up a potential employee who has a theft charge because of concerns that you may steal from their business. Even if you stole something as insignificant as a can of soda, the charge will appear on your record and continue to hold you back from achieving your full potential.
Fortunately, most states will allow you to have an arrest or conviction for petty theft expunged. The chances of a successful expunction are high if this was your only brush with the criminal justice system, and you’ve managed to stay out of trouble since the incident. Getting rid of your petty theft record will improve your employment opportunities because employers will not be able to see the charge. Moreover, you can legally answer no to any questions asking about your arrest.
There are many factors that will determine if you’re able to receive an expunction, so if you’re serious about clearing the charge from your record, you should reach out to us to determine your eligibility. We can get you a free background report and help you find out if you qualify. Once the charge is expunged, the court will destroy all records of the arrest and court proceedings, making it as if the incident never happened. You don’t have to live your life with a past mistake looming over your head—we can give you the fresh start you need to live your life to the fullest.
