Shoplifting in a retail store might be done on a whim or it might be planned ahead of time. Some individuals lift items mainly because they feel a pleasant rush of adrenalin when doing so, and they like getting away with the offense in addition to obtaining free goods. Others have a more strategic plan to acquire things that they really want or feel they need but cannot afford. A Theft Defense Attorney is important for providing legal defense when someone is caught stealing in this manner. Even though the act of shoplifting is legally not as serious as committing armed robbery or burglarizing a home, a conviction still results in penalties and a criminal record.
Most instances of shoplifting are classified as misdemeanors because they don’t involve high-value merchandise. When the value reaches a certain amount, however, the theft becomes a felony and poses the risk of much harsher penalties. Another factor is whether the person has been convicted of any type of theft in the past. A prior conviction could result in the shoplifting charge automatically being a felony. It should be noted that even misdemeanors can result in a jail sentence depending on the judge who is assigned to the case. However, an individual with a felony theft charge could be sentenced to several months or even a year in prison. That’s a hefty price to pay for trying to walk out of a store with an expensive jacket, a camera, or a designer handbag underneath a winter coat.
It can be difficult to defend against a charge of shoplifting when the person has been caught with the hidden merchandise while stepping out of the store. A Theft Defense Attorney may recommend negotiating a plea bargain with the prosecuting attorney instead of going to trial. This strategy can result in charges being reduced or the expected sentence being reduced. The individual may be able to avoid jail time altogether and instead complete a sentence of community service and probation. A person who has been charged with this type of theft may contact a lawyer such as. for legal representation. You can also watch video on their YouTube channel.
