Chicago Shoplifting Defense Attorney

Although some may consider shoplifting and retail theft to be a relatively “minor” offense, it may have a lasting impact on you and your family. You may face imprisonment, heavy fines, probation and the employment, financial and housing issues that may be associated with a criminal record. It is therefore crucial that you involve an attorney who can help you challenge your shoplifting charges. Do not hesitate to contact a Chicago criminal defense lawyer if you have been accused of or arrested for shoplifting or retail theft.

What is Shoplifting/Retail Theft?

The terms shoplifting and retail theft are used interchangeably; however, they refer to the same thing. Retail theft and shoplifting are both a theft crime and refer to the theft of merchandise from a store or business establishment. Although the statutes vary widely from state to state, they generally include the elements of (1) willfully taking and/or concealing unpurchased goods, and (2) with the intention of taking the unpurchased goods and keeping them for personal use.

With retail theft and shoplifting, the person takes in possession or conceals the goods both on and outside of the retail establishment's premises. Retail theft and shoplifting can occur at a small boutique, a grocery store, a large chain store, or at any other small or large business where they have goods for sale.

Most often, shoplifting or retail theft is a misdemeanor offense. A defendant in Chicago may face imprisonment in county jail if convicted, but at times the court may allow probation and/or community service in lieu of part or all of the jail sentence. The specific penalties that a defendant will face will vary depending on the amount of property allegedly stolen as well as his or her past criminal record, if any. If a defendant has prior shoplifting convictions or is accused of taking valuable property, he or she may face felony charges and penalties.

Criminal Lawyer for Shoplifting Charges in Chicago

Unfortunately, in these troubling economic times, people may be driven to steal something that doesn't belong to them from a store or other retail business. It's not uncommon for people to do desperate things in desperate times. Just because someone stole something from a grocery store or a shopping mall, doesn't mean that they are hardened career criminals that are a threat to society.

In cases like these, especially where it's the person's first brush with the law, there may be a lighter approach that may help them avoid criminal consequences. In other words, under some circumstances, there are certain courts where retail theft diversion programs may be available. In this case, if a person qualifies for such program, successful completion may be able to potentially keep their record clean so they can avoid the ramifications of a criminal conviction.

This can prove to be very beneficial for the accused, helping them avoid jail time, and the life-altering consequences of a permanent criminal record. A permanent criminal record will certainly affect one's ability to obtain employment, housing, student loans and certain professional licenses. Therefore, whatever can be done to avoid a conviction will be in the person's best interests.

Involve a criminal lawyer who will work tirelessly on your behalf to help you avoid a criminal conviction and record for shoplifting. With our experience in handling criminal cases in the Chicago area and our dedication to our clients, we at Fagan, Fagan & Davis are here to offer you the help you need. All you need to do to get started is to contact our offices to schedule a confidential review of your case.

Contact a Chicago shoplifting defense lawyer at our offices today.