Sarasota Shoplifting Lawyer
Charged with Shoplifting? Call (941) 564-5319
Males and females of all ages can be charged with the crime of shoplifting.
Many of our clients who are facing shoplifting charges do not have a prior
criminal record and never expected that they would be accused of a criminal
offense. In many cases, innocent individuals are even charged with this
offense for a wide range of reasons.
Contact a Sarasota defense attorney if you have been arrested for shoplifting.
You May Be Facing Serious Penalties
Under
Florida Statute § 812.014, punishments for shoplifting are discussed. This offense can either be
charged as petit theft or grand theft depending on the value of the item
that was taken. Penalties that the defendant faces are dependent on whether
the individual has prior convictions on his or her criminal record. Effects of a
theft crime can last for an extensive amount of time. If you have been charged, do
not wait to obtain the
criminal defense that you deserve with a Sarasota theft crime lawyer!
Shoplifting Defense Tactics
If you are hoping to prove the crime of retail theft, prosecution will
need to prove that the person who was accused has actual and tangible
evidence that the offense took place. Prosecution will also need to show
that the defendant intended to deprive the merchant of the full value
of the possession or service.
It will have to be proven that one of the following occurred by the defendant:
- Took possession of / carried away merchandise
- Transferred merchandise form one container to another
- Altered / removed a label or price tag
- Removed a shopping cart from a merchant's premises
There are a few theft crime defenses that can be used against the charge
of retail theft or shoplifting. For instance, if the item was taken by
accident or the defendant acted unknowingly, this may be a valid defense. During a
free consultation, I can help you determine a solid defense and ensure that you your freedom
is protected! If you qualify for
expungement, we can also help.