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Theft Charges Defense Attorney in McKinney, TX

A theft charge is often treated like it is “just” a property case, but the reality is that a conviction can follow you for years. Employers, landlords, licensing boards, and schools tend to view theft as a character issue, not a mistake. Even when the allegation started as a misunderstanding, a dispute, or a moment that got out of control, the criminal justice system will still treat it as a criminal case unless it is defended properly.

My name is Paul Key. I am a criminal defense attorney serving McKinney and the surrounding North Texas area, including Collin County and Dallas County. I have been practicing law since 1996. I served as an Army JAG and worked in the Collin County District Attorney’s Office before dedicating my private practice to criminal defense. If you want a lawyer who will defend you instead of pressuring you to plead guilty, call me. I will speak with you in confidence about your case and explain what it would cost for me to defend you through trial.

Call now for a confidential consultation. If you prefer, you can also schedule a call on our website booking form.

If you were accused of theft, what matters right now

An accusation is not proof. Theft cases are often based on incomplete information, rushed decisions by loss prevention or police, and assumptions about intent. People frequently damage their case early by trying to explain themselves to store personnel, security, or law enforcement without counsel.

Do not discuss the allegation

No statements to police, detectives, or store personnel.

Follow court rules exactly

Keep paperwork, attend all dates, and follow bond conditions.

Call early

Early guidance helps position the strongest possible defense.

Theft cases often turn on intent and proof

Theft is not simply about whether an item changed hands. The State still has to prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt. In many theft cases, the evidence is not as clear as the accusation makes it sound. Sometimes video is incomplete. Sometimes a witness assumes intent. Sometimes a situation that is civil in nature gets pushed into criminal court.

My job is to force the State to prove its version of events and to challenge weak or unfair assumptions. That includes examining:

Whether the accusation is based on reliable evidence or speculation

Whether video exists, and what it actually shows from beginning to end

Whether identification is accurate, especially in busy retail environments

Whether the facts support criminal intent or a misunderstanding

Whether the amount alleged is accurate and properly documented

Whether statements were taken fairly and completely

A theft charge can sometimes be defended by showing the State cannot prove intent, cannot prove identity, or cannot prove the allegation the way it claims.

How I defend theft cases

The defense of a theft case should be structured and evidence-driven. That means getting the records, reviewing the details, and making sure decisions are made based on the reality of the case, not on embarrassment or pressure.

When I defend theft allegations, I focus on:

● Obtaining and reviewing police reports, witness statements, and store documentation

● Reviewing surveillance footage and determining whether it supports the accusation

● Identifying inconsistencies between reports, video, and witness accounts

● Challenging identification issues when the accused is assumed rather than proven

● Examining whether the case is truly criminal or more accurately a civil dispute

● Evaluating negotiation options without pressuring you into a plea

● Preparing the case as if it may need to go to trial

Some cases resolve without trial. Some should be tried. Either way, you should not plead guilty without understanding the full consequences and the weaknesses in the State’s evidence.

Common theft charge scenarios

Theft charges can arise in more ways than most people realize. Common situations include:

Shoplifting allegations based on limited surveillance footage

Claims an item was not paid for due to distraction or checkout issues

Self-checkout accusations where intent is assumed

Employee theft allegations based on inventory shortages or suspicion

Refund, return, or “refund fraud” accusations

Disputes over borrowing property, including family or business conflicts

If you are accused of theft in McKinney, Collin County, or Dallas County, do not assume that you have no options. The details matter, and they can change the outcome.

Why a theft conviction can create long-term problems

A theft conviction is uniquely damaging because it is often viewed as dishonesty rather than a one-time lapse. Even when penalties in the courtroom seem manageable, the record itself can create long-term barriers.

A theft case can affect:

● Employment background checks and professional advancement

● Housing applications and rental approvals

● Security clearances and government employment

● Professional licensing and credentialing

● College admissions and scholarship opportunities

● Immigration consequences for non-citizens

If you are facing a theft charge, the goal should not be to “get it over with.” The goal should be to defend it in a way that protects your future.

What you may be risking in a theft case

The consequences depend on the facts, the alleged value, and your record. A responsible lawyer will not promise outcomes without reviewing evidence. What I can do is help you understand the risk and build a defense aimed at reducing exposure and protecting your long-term interests.

Depending on the case, consequences may include:

Jail exposure and probation or community supervision

Fines, restitution, and court costs

A permanent criminal record

Employment, licensing, and reputation consequences

Even a “minor” theft case can have consequences that outlast the case itself.

Why local experience matters in McKinney, Collin County, and Dallas County

Theft cases are prosecuted locally, and local practices matter. I have practiced law since 1996, including service as an Army JAG and work in the Collin County District Attorney’s Office. My private practice has been dedicated to criminal defense, and most of my cases are in Collin and Dallas Counties. That local familiarity matters when you are trying to navigate a stressful situation and make smart decisions quickly.

If you are in McKinney, TX 75070 or nearby and you need representation for a theft charge, call me.

Real Clients. Real Results.

"BAM, I WON MY CASE"

"Paul made me cry the moment he called me my case was dismissed. Happiness tears!!!! I'm so happy I got him to represent me. I went based off reviews from here when I searched him up. And he is so upfront and honest. I wasn't going to go to trial for my DWI case. But him telling me my case was winnable made me trust in his word, and BAM, I WON MY CASE. I will forever be grateful for your work."

Ana R.

"I Beat the DUI and Gun Charge"

"My life was on the verge of falling apart facing a DUI and a gun charge…I was referred to Paul through a good friend and he was worth every red cent. He knows his stuff, has great connections in the courts and knows the approach prosecution will most likely take. I beat the DUI and gun charge and I cant thank Paul enough. I am forever indebted to Paul.

Terrance F.

"Helped Relive A lot of Stress"

"Paul was so helpful and kind during the whole process! He helped relieve a lot of stress that I was facing and we ended up with the best case scenario. Can’t be more thankful to work with Paul."

John V.

"Responsive, Open, & Clear Expectations"

Paul is very responsive with his clients, is always open, and clear about expectations. He was key in helping me clear my record of all charges that I received in my youth.

Daniel M.

Frequently Asked Questions

Clear answers to help you make a confident decision.

What happens when I call?

If you are accused of theft, you likely want direct answers and a plan you can trust.

When you contact my office:

● We will have a confidential conversation about what happened and what you have been accused of

● I will explain immediate priorities, including what not to do and what evidence to preserve

● If we decide to work together, I will explain my fee and what representation will cover

Call now for a confidential consultation or schedule a call on our booking form.

Should I talk to store security or loss prevention to clear this up?

In most situations, no. Statements made to store personnel can become evidence. If the accusation is wrong or exaggerated, the safest way to address it is through counsel.

What if it was a mistake and I did not intend to steal?

Intent matters, and mistakes happen. The key is how the State can prove intent based on evidence. Your defense should focus on proof, not assumptions.

What if there is video footage?

Video can help or hurt depending on what it shows and what is missing. Many videos are incomplete or do not show the full context. The footage needs to be reviewed carefully before decisions are made.

Can a theft charge be dismissed?

It depends on the facts and the evidence. Some cases can be resolved favorably when the State cannot prove the charge or when defense issues are developed early. No responsible lawyer should promise dismissal without a full review.

Do I have to pay restitution?

That depends on the case and how it is resolved. Restitution may be requested in some outcomes, but it should never be treated as an automatic admission of guilt without understanding the legal implications.

How much does it cost to hire a theft defense attorney?

Fees depend on the charge, the complexity, and what it will take to defend the case properly. After I understand what you are facing, I will explain the fee and what it covers.

Talk with a McKinney theft defense attorney

If you are facing theft charges in McKinney, Collin County, or Dallas County, you need a defense strategy built on evidence, careful analysis, and preparation. You also need a lawyer who will defend you rather than pushing you into a quick plea because it is easier for the system.

I have practiced law since 1996, served as an Army JAG, and worked in the Collin County District Attorney’s Office before dedicating my private practice to criminal defense. If you want a confidential, direct conversation about your theft case and what to do next, call me.

Call now for a confidential consultation or schedule a call through my website booking form.