Shoplifting offenses may seem like minor criminal infractions. However, failure to take the appropriate legal measures could cause you to be subject to the criminal penalties associate with a shoplifting conviction.
If you have been accused of stealing merchandise from a store, be sure to retain legal assistance from one of our experienced criminal Attorneys at Leifert & Leifert as soon as possible. By working with a Lake Park shoplifting lawyer, you may be able to professionally combat the criminal accusations made against you.
Definition of Shoplifting in Lake Park
Theft is any act in which a person intends to deprive another person of the use of their property, temporarily or permanently, as described in Florida Statute § 812.014. The same laws apply to theft acts depending on the value of the property.
Petit Shoplifting
Petit retail theft is a misdemeanor. It is a first-degree misdemeanor if the stolen goods have a value of at least $100 and less than $750. If the stolen items are worth less than a $100, the accused person could be charged with a second-degree offense.
Grand Shoplifting
Grand retail theft is considered a Felony in the State of Florida. It is a third-degree Felony if the property stolen is worth between $750 and less then $20,000. In the event that the act of shoplifting causes injury to another person, the charges may become more severe.
Penalties for a Shoplifting Conviction
If the Court convicts a person of petit theft in the second degree, that may result in up to 60 days in Jail. A Court may punish an act of first-degree petit larceny with less than one year of Jail time.
If the Court finds an actor guilty of a third-degree Felony, the Court may sentence that person to up to five years in prison. The same punishment applies if the Court had previously convicted the actor at least two times of any degree of theft.
Alternative Resolutions for Shoplifting Charges
If the prosecutor decides to move forward with charges, there may be alternatives that could help the charged individual. Instead of pleading guilty or taking a plea bargain, a person may be able to receive a different outcome. For example, if the matter is the defendant’s first charge, the government may allow a dismissal. After having a case dismissed, the individual may be able to have their record expunged.
An attorney may be able to help argue for dismissal. If that is not possible, legal help could also fight to have charges reduced or dropped.
Contact a Lake Park Shoplifting Attorney Today
There may be defenses available if the police have arrested you for stealing from a store. It can be difficult to accurately present any legitimate defenses you may have to the government, making it all-the-more important to speak with one of our well-versed attorneys at Leifert & Leifert. Speak with a Lake Park shoplifting lawyer to learn more about your options and how a legal representative could assist you. This is your case, and it is up to you to fight for the best possible outcome. Schedule a consultation to get started on your case today.
