Shoplifting Lawyer Minneapolis & St. Paul
Shoplifting may seem like a very minor offense and, when compared to other types of theft, it typically is. However, that does not reduce the impact that shoplifting has on your future. It is a low level offense that can result in you having difficulty finding a job or a place to live. Employers and landlords do not like to see any sort of theft on a person’s criminal record. In fact, a low level theft offense could potentially have more of an impact than a DWI offense in the eyes of some.
If you have been accused of shoplifting, you have the right to seek the assistance of a Minneapolis theft defense attorney who will aggressively represent your interests and fight to achieve the best outcome for you. Even in a shoplifting case, you deserve to be legally protected and advocated for throughout the entire process.
Skilled Shoplifting Representation
If the value of the property that was allegedly stolen is less than $250, that falls into the category of petty theft .This means that you would pay a $300 fine and/or the cost of the item if it was not recovered. The exact charge depends on the nature of the offense and whether or not the individual had any previous criminal offenses. Depending on the factors, a shoplifting offenses could result in up to 90 days in jail or the offense can be classified as a felony and that could mean years in prison and a high fine.
Felony shoplifting is charged when a person has previous offenses on their record, if the shoplifting was part of a crime spree, and if the value of the stolen items were more than $500. If the property is valued between $500 and $2500, the prison term could be 5 years and the fine could be $10,000.
Aggressive Shoplifting Defense
Your St. Paul theft defense lawyer will look at the evidence and gather all of the information necessary in the case. This is so a strong case can be built for you. Even if you did commit the offense, it doesn’t mean that you have to pay the maximum penalties. Instead, it is possible for your attorney to have the charges reduced and, when the circumstances are right for it, the charges can even be completely dismissed. Your attorney will work hard to achieve the best possible outcome in the case so that you can move on with your life as soon as possible.
Contact A Minneapolis Theft Defense Attorney
Shoplifting may not seem like a very serious theft offense, but it is one that can lead to a criminal record that then causes difficulty with obtaining meaningful employment, a place to live, and anything else that involves a background check. If you have been accused of shoplifting, it is very important that you seek the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney. To learn more about your rights and options, contact the Anderson Law Firm, PLLC at 952-582-2904 to request a free consultation.
DISCLAIMER: The information contained in this article does not constitute an attorney-client relationship. Please contact attorney Kirk Anderson for an initial consultation.