Although normally thought of as a small-time offense, shoplifting can lead to extremely serious criminal penalties which in some cases could be life changing. Grabel & Associates understands the laws and legal issues which affect retail fraud cases in Michigan, and our criminal defense team in Detroit will immediately begin working with you to fight back against the potential punishment you could face. The best first step to take in any case, no matter what charge you face, is contacting a shoplifting lawyer who can help you determine the steps you need to take. Call us or contact us online now for a free initial consultation and speak with a lawyer who has worked in cases similar to yours in the Detroit area. We know what it takes to achieve favorable outcomes and are prepared to do all we can to protect your freedom.
Wrongful convictions and excessive sentences in retail fraud cases are very possible, and it is crucial that you work with a law firm that has the experience and skill necessary to help you achieve the best available result. At Grabel & Associates, our talented team combines for numerous years of experience and for over a decade our firm has been a recognized force in the sphere of Michigan criminal law. We have worked in a variety of retail fraud cases, involving theft, price tag errors, juvenile shoplifting, and more. Contact us now to begin your battle for a just result.
There are three degrees of shoplifting charge in Michigan, which depend on the value of stolen or altered goods. Although theft from a store is usually what results in shoplifting charges, changing a price tag, the amount on a tag, or removing a tag with intent not to pay full price for a good can also lead to retail fraud charges.
In cases involving theft of an item valued at under $200 or a price difference under $200, 3rd degree retail fraud charges can result. In cases involving theft of something valued at over $200 but under $1,000, or a price alteration of the same amount, a 2nd degree charge can result. If the item is valued over $1,000 or the price is changed by an amount over $1,000, the result could be a first degree retail fraud charge.
Contact our team of Detroit shoplifting defense lawyers now if you have been accused of any degree of retail fraud. We are available 24/7 to begin working with you in your case.
The penalties which can result from a retail fraud conviction are very serious, and could include both jail time and fines. A first degree conviction carries a maximum potential sentence of up to 5 years in jail and as much as $10,000 in fines, or payments of up to 3 times the value of the goods stolen. A second degree conviction can result in a jail sentence of up to a year and a fine of up to $2,000 or three times the value of stolen goods. A 3rd degree conviction can lead to up to 93 days in jail and a fine of up to either $500 or three times the value of the goods stolen.
If you are underage and have been accused of shoplifting, or if you have a criminal record, the penalties you may face could differ. Additionally, if other charges are involved, you may be facing enhanced maximum penalties and even more serious legal issues. Contact our team now to begin working towards a favorable outcome in your case.
When you are accused of a crime like retail fraud, your first instinct may be to speak to the police and clear your name. It is critical that you don’t say anything before consulting an attorney, and we know how time sensitive your situation could be which is why we are available 24/7 for clients statewide. Our team will provide you with an individualized defense strategy based on your individual legal goals and the specifics of your case. Don’t hesitate to contact us and begin working toward a result like many past clients have achieved in difficult cases throughout Michigan. Our satisfied clients will tell you our team is unsurpassed in our ability to provide comprehensive defense in retail fraud cases.
Call 1-800-342-7896 to speak with a case analyst or contact us online and set up a free, no obligation consultation. Talk with trial attorney Scott Grabel about your case and benefit from over 10 years of legal experience in Michigan. We know what it takes to guide you through your legal fight and are dedicated to providing the highest standard of defense to clients in every case we take.