Managing Attorney
If you’re caught shoplifting or accused of theft in Houston but not arrested on the spot, it doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. In fact, it may only be the beginning of the legal process. Whether you received a citation or were simply warned that charges would be filed later, it’s important to understand what could happen next — and why you should speak to a criminal defense attorney right away.
Class C Theft Citations in Houston
In many cases where the value of the alleged theft is under $100, police will issue a Class C misdemeanor citation instead of making an arrest. This typically happens in shoplifting cases involving low-value items. The citation will include a court date at a municipal court, not a criminal court at the county level.
There are multiple municipal courts throughout the Houston area that handle Class C theft cases. While a Class C theft is the lowest level of criminal offense in Texas, it can still have serious consequences if not handled properly — including a conviction on your record. With the help of an experienced lawyer, it may be possible to get these charges dismissed or resolved in a way that protects your criminal history.
What If the Alleged Theft Was Over $100?
When the value is $100 or more, theft becomes a Class B misdemeanor or higher. Typically, in these cases, a person is arrested and given a court date at a Harris County criminal courthouse — most likely at 1201 Franklin, where Class A and B misdemeanors are heard.
But in some situations, especially when law enforcement is overwhelmed or opts for delayed processing, officers may release the person without arrest and state that a warrant will be issued later. This can be confusing and stressful.
If this happens to you, it’s critical to:
- Contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately;
- Register with the Harris County District Clerk’s website to monitor whether a warrant is filed;
- Avoid ignoring the situation — because once a warrant is issued, you can be arrested at any time. It is better to get ahead of the situation.
How Do You Know If a Warrant Has Been Issued?
Some people first learn of a warrant when they begin receiving unsolicited texts from bail bond agents or attorneys, claiming a warrant exists. This is a common — and questionable — marketing tactic, but it often indicates that something has been filed.
To confirm, a lawyer can help you monitor the Harris County court system for any new charges or warrants under your name. You can also search for your name on the Harris County District Clerk’s website.
If a warrant is active, you may have options to resolve it without being taken to jail.
Walk-Through Arrests in Houston
If a bond amount is set on the warrant, you may be able to post bond at the Harris County Bail Bond Window at 49 San Jacinto. In other cases, your attorney may help you arrange a walk-through arrest — a process where you appear in court and ask the judge to set bond, post bond, and avoid being booked into jail.
To learn more, see our full blog: What Is a Walk-Through Arrest in Houston?
Theft Punishment Ranges in Texas
Texas law punishes theft based on the value of the item allegedly stolen (or “appropriated,” as the statute says). Here’s a brief overview:
| Value | Offense Level | Punishment |
| Under $100 | Class C Misdemeanor | Fine up to $500 |
| $100 – $749 | Class B Misdemeanor | Up to 180 days in jail and $2,000 fine |
| $750 – $2,499 | Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year in jail and $4,000 fine |
| $2,500+ | Felony charges | Ranges from 180 days to life in prison |
Even if you’re only accused of a misdemeanor theft, a conviction can have long-lasting consequences — especially for employment, immigration status, and future background checks.
Shoplifting Is a Form of Theft
Many people use the term “shoplifting,” but under Texas law, there’s no separate statute for it. Shoplifting is simply theft, defined as unlawfully appropriating property with the intent to deprive the owner. The same penalties apply whether you’re accused of stealing from a retail store or taking someone’s personal belongings.
Don’t Wait for a Warrant to Take Action
If you’re accused of theft and let go without being arrested, you still face potential criminal charges. Ceja Law Firm has successfully defended countless theft and shoplifting cases across Houston. Whether you’re dealing with a Class C citation or anticipating a warrant, we can help you:
- Monitor your warrant status;
- Protect your record;
- Explore dismissal or reduction options.
Call us today to schedule a free consultation.
