While shoplifting is considered a misdemeanor and may seem to be a minor crime, it can yet have severe consequences for anyone convicted of that crime. Having a theft crime conviction on your record can result in a serious impact on your future.
By hiring a Columbus criminal defense attorney to help mitigate the charges, it may be possible to have your charges reduced to petty theft or even dismissed if this is a first offense.
Shoplifting, also known as retail theft, can range greatly in its possible consequences. A conviction on any charge brings with it the immense burden of a permanent criminal record.
Theft charges can be levied against anyone who takes property without permission from another with the purpose of permanently depriving them:
The seriousness of a shoplifting charge will depend in great part on the value of stolen goods or services.
We at The Meranda Law Firm LTD fully understand that someone accused of shoplifting does not mean they are guilty. There can be many factors that would cause a store owner or another to believe that shoplifting had occurred when perhaps it was a simple misunderstanding. Let our legal team develop a defense on your behalf that will help to have the charges dropped, if at all possible.
Our team can review all of the available evidence, police reports, witness statements, and help you build a solid defense. We work diligently for our clients in pursuit of optimum results to a shoplifting charge, while keeping in mind the potential effects of a criminal charge to your future.
Contact a Columbus criminal lawyer as soon as possible for outstanding legal counsel.