If you’ve been charged with theft in Texas, the consequences can extend far beyond fines, jail time, or community service. One of the most significant long-term effects of a theft charge—whether it's a misdemeanor or felony—is the damage it can do to your employment prospects. A criminal record for theft can be a significant obstacle when seeking work. This is especially true in positions that require trust, responsibility, or handling money.
At Harrell & Paulson, we've met with clients who don’t realize just how much a single theft charge can haunt them for years. Located in Kaufman, Texas, our firm also provides criminal defense services in Forney, Terrell, and Rockwall. Call us for defense against theft charges and other criminal defense matters in Texas.
Whether you’ve been accused of shoplifting or charged with embezzlement, it’s important to understand your legal rights and how to limit the impact on your future.
What Is Considered Theft Under Texas Law?
According to Texas Penal Code § 31.03, a person commits theft when they unlawfully appropriate property with the intent to deprive the owner of it. Theft can range in severity depending on the value and type of property stolen:
Class C misdemeanor: Theft of property under $100
Class B misdemeanor: Theft of $100–$750
Class A misdemeanor: Theft of $750–$2,500
State jail felony: Theft of $2,500–$30,000 or theft of certain property like firearms
Felony theft: Larger amounts or aggravating circumstances
Even a Class C misdemeanor for theft can be damaging when it shows up on a background check—especially if left unaddressed or mishandled in court.
Why Employers Take Theft Charges Seriously
Most employers perform background checks as part of the hiring process. In Texas, these checks may include a review of arrest records, criminal charges, and convictions. Theft charges, in particular, are viewed as “crimes of moral turpitude,” meaning they reflect on your honesty and character.
Employers are understandably cautious about hiring individuals with a history of theft, especially for roles involving:
Handling cash or financial records
Working in retail or customer service
Managing inventory or merchandise
Caring for vulnerable populations (children, elderly, or disabled)
Government or security-sensitive positions
Even if the theft occurred years ago, or you were never convicted, the mere presence of the charge can create doubt in an employer’s mind. And in at-will employment states like Texas, companies can legally refuse to hire someone based on their criminal record—except in cases where doing so would violate anti-discrimination laws.
How a Theft Charge Can Disrupt Your Career Path
A theft charge can interfere with your job prospects in several ways:
Fewer Job Offers
Even if you're highly qualified, your resume could be passed over if a background check reveals a theft charge or conviction. Many employers have strict internal policies that automatically disqualify applicants with criminal records involving theft or fraud.
Limited Career Advancement
Current employers may be less likely to promote individuals with criminal records, especially into management roles. A theft conviction can stall your career growth or affect your eligibility for leadership positions, government contracts, or professional licenses.
Loss of Professional Licenses
Certain professions in Texas require state licensing, such as nursing, accounting, teaching, or real estate. A theft conviction can jeopardize your ability to obtain or renew these licenses. Regulatory boards may view theft as a sign of untrustworthiness or a violation of ethical standards.
Revoked Job Offers
In some cases, individuals are offered a job and later have the offer revoked after a background check reveals a theft charge. This can be financially and emotionally devastating, especially if you've already left another job or made life changes based on the new offer.
Does the Type of Theft Matter?
Yes. While all theft charges can harm your reputation, the type and severity of the offense can influence how employers view it.
Shoplifting a small item: This might be seen as impulsive behavior, particularly for young offenders.
Embezzlement or employee theft: This crime is viewed as more serious, especially if it involved a breach of trust or a large sum of money.
Repeat offenses: If you show a pattern of behavior, it may be more damaging than a one-time mistake.
Employers often weigh the circumstances, how long ago the offense occurred, and whether you’ve taken steps to rehabilitate. However, many simply reject candidates with theft charges altogether to avoid perceived risk.
What About Charges That Don’t Result in Conviction?
Even if your theft case was dismissed or you were found not guilty, the arrest may still appear on your record. In Texas, arrest records are public unless sealed through an expunction or order of nondisclosure.
That means employers may still see the charge during a background check, even if there is no conviction. Without the proper criminal defense action to seal or expunge the record, you could continue facing employment hurdles.
Sealing or Expunging Theft Charges in Texas
The good news is that in some cases, you may be eligible to seal or expunge a theft charge in Texas. Consulting with an experienced criminal defense attorney can help determine your eligibility and guide you through the process. Effective criminal defense strategies increase your chances of clearing your record and improving your future opportunities.
Here are some of the ways you can have your charges cleared from your record:
Expunction: This action completely erases the record as if it never happened. You may be eligible if the charge was dismissed, you were found not guilty, or the statute of limitations expired.
Order of nondisclosure: This seals the record from public view but allows law enforcement and certain government agencies to access it. You may qualify after successful completion of deferred adjudication probation for a theft offense.
Both processes involve filing legal paperwork and meeting specific eligibility requirements. A criminal defense attorney can help determine if you're eligible and guide you through the process.
Tips for Job Seekers With a Theft Record
If you’re already dealing with a theft conviction and searching for work, here are a few tips. Be honest about your past while focusing on how you've grown and changed since the conviction.
Consider working with a criminal defense attorney who can help you understand your rights and possibly assist with record expungement. A strong criminal defense strategy can also make a difference in how future employers view your case.
Here are a few tips for how to handle this situation:
Be honest: Lying about your criminal history on an application can lead to disqualification or termination later.
Focus on rehabilitation: Emphasize what you’ve done to grow and change, such as community service, education, or steady work since the offense.
Get references: Strong references from former employers or community members can help build credibility.
Know your rights: In Texas, private employers have discretion, but they must still comply with federal laws regarding discrimination and fair hiring practices.
Work with a lawyer: You may still have options to clean up your record and improve your job prospects.
By following these tips, you can do a lot to increase your chances of obtaining employment in Texas, even if you have a record.
Reach Out for More Information
If you’ve been charged with theft in Texas, don’t wait. Speak to our criminal defense attorneys at Harrell & Paulson, who can protect your rights and help you fight for your future. We serve clients in Kaufman, Terrell, Rockwall, and Forney. A single mistake shouldn't cost you a lifetime of opportunity. Please reach out to us for legal assistance.
