Sometimes, people can be wrongfully accused, and everyone makes impulse decisions and mistakes that could create a huge impact on the rest of our lives. If you have been charged with retail theft sometimes known as shoplifting, you could face harsh penalties like fines from hundreds of dollars to thousands and you could be facing jail time. In order for you to resolve the charges against you, you need a retail theft attorney West Palm Beach to represent you as retail theft can be a serious criminal offense.
What is Retail Theft?
Retail theft is when a person unlawfully takes, transfers, or carries away any merchandise offered for sale by a retail establishment.
Retail Theft Offenses Under Florida Law
Charges for retail theft can be serious. In Florida, retail theft can be petit theft or grand theft and is looked at by the court of law very seriously. For people convicted of retail theft, the conviction can affect future employment opportunities. Available punishments depend upon the severity of the offense i.e. the value of the alleged stolen property.
- Petit Theft of the First Degree – if the value of the property stolen is worth less than $300 but more than $100 or you have a prior theft conviction. Penalties may include 1 year in jail, 1 year of probation, or a fine of up to $1,000.
- Petit Theft of the Second Degree – if the value of the property stolen is worth less than $100. Penalties can include 6 months in jail, 6 months of probation, driver’s license suspension (6 months upon a first conviction and one year for each subsequent convictions), or a fine of up to $500.
Do You Need a Retail Theft Attorney West Palm Beach for Retail Theft Charges?
In Florida, you can be charged with a felony and go to prison if the property alleged to have been taken is valued more at $300 or more. A theft conviction will affect you for the rest of your life. Consider speaking with a retail theft attorney West Palm Beach at David Olson Law today to discuss your case and we will help you understand your options and legal rights.
