What is Retail Theft?
Retail theft, commonly called shoplifting, is prosecuted vigorously by the authorities. A person can be charged with retail theft in several ways. The typical example is when someone is accused of taking items from a store past the last point of payment without actually paying for them. But someone can also be charged with retail theft if they alter or change the price tags on items in an attempt to get an item for less than its full value. If you are facing charges for retail theft you need to seek advice from an experienced criminal defense attorney in order to keep your record clean.
Call Daniel D. Hinich right away – A Criminal Defense Attorney practicing in Chicago, Markham, IL, Bridgeview, IL and Joliet, IL.
Is Shoplifting or Retail Theft Always a Misdemeanor?
NO! Believe it or not if the items that you are charged with stealing are worth more than $300 you can be charged with a felony. This applies even if you have never been in trouble with the law before. Additionally, you can be charged with felony retail theft if you have a previous conviction for retail theft. The penalties for misdemeanor retail theft can be up to 1 year in jail with fines of up to $2500. For a class 4 felony retail theft you can be sentenced from 1 to 3 years in prison with fines up to $25,000! 720 ILCS 5/16-25. And your problems don’t end there. A retail theft conviction on your background can be considered a crime of dishonesty and will have a serious impact on your ability to obtain employment. It can also create professional licensing problems and difficulties. As you can see the simple offense of shoplifting is no joke. You need an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side
Call the Law Office of Daniel D. Hinich right away to protect yourself. 312 465-8000.
What Can You Do If You Are Charged With Retail Theft?
While shoplifting or retail theft might seem like an insignificant offense being arrested and prosecuted can have a significant effect on your life. Luckily, with the right attorney there are many ways to defend yourself, your reputation and your future. A skilled attorney will always investigate the facts of the case thoroughly. At the Law Office of Daniel D. Hinich we investigate all the facts to see if there is a possible defense to the case at trial. There are also alternatives to trial such as court supervision and deferred prosecution programs. The goal is to clear your name and keep your record clean. If you have been arrested for retail theft it is important to call us immediately. We can help.
Call Daniel D. Hinich Today – He is a Criminal Defense Attorney defending people’s rights in Chicago, Markham, IL, Bridgeview, IL, Joliet, IL and the South Suburbs of Chicago.