Columbus Shoplifting Attorney
Vigorous Defense for Those Accused of Shoplifting
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.
Definition of Shoplifting Offenses in Ohio
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:
- By force
- Threat or
- Deception.
Penalties for Shoplifting in Ohio
The seriousness of a shoplifting charge will depend in great part on the value of stolen goods or services.
- For property valued up to $500, first degree misdemeanor charges can be punishable with up to 6 months of jail time and $1000 in fines.
- As value increases, charges become felonies that can bring upwards of 10 years imprisonment or fines up to $20,000.
Need a theft defense lawyer for a shoplifting charge?
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.
Hear From Our Happy Clients
Reviews & Testimonials
At The Meranda Law Firm LTD, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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"As stress free as it can be"A criminal case can be very stressful. The Meranda Law Firm can help you with this process. Zack is there to make sure that you get the best personal one on one help you can get. So you don't get pushed around in the system. Takes all the worry out of your case. Very down to earth guy. Easy to talk too. Without Zack I don't know where I would be right now. Thanks Zack; can't tell you how much I appreciate the help you gave me. If you are looking for a lawyer that can take the stress out of your case Zack is your guy- Jeff w
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"Great Representation"There are three reasons I recommend Zachuary Meranda if you are arrested for DUI. First off, he is a straight shooter. Never did he sugar coat my situation. Second, he handled everything while keeping me informed and walked me through everything as it progressed. Third, he got me the result- NO DUI!!! Thanks Zak!- Shane Dolen
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"Excellent job!"We are very appreciative of the efforts put forth by Zach Meranda. The outcome was positive and he made us feel secure in an out of control situation. Felt glad to have him defending us and having his common sense approach to our case. We would recommend his services to anyone in need.- Anonymous
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"I Highly Recommend The Meranda Law Firm"I couldn't have asked for a better attorney. I've had other attorneys and Zach is the only one that actually knew my case and put a lot of time and effort into making sure the outcome was good, which it definitely was. I really think he is one of the best attorneys & I highly recommend him to anyone that needs legal help.- Payton R
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"Great work!!"Zach Meranda was a real attorney with a no bull shit strategy!!! But he won my criminal case even when the odds were against me and I thank him and his associates!!- Pfeifer
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"Great Job"Zach did a great job representing me. He worked hard to take care of me in my case. If I ever need a lawyer again, I'll definitely give him a call first.- Rod
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"Great Attorney"Zach is a great attorney. He has represented me twice and both times I got positive results. If you need an attorney call The Meranda Law Firm, he's the best.- Frances Benson
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"An Attorney That Will Give You His All!"Zach is incredibly professional and will work as hard as he can for you, no matter how big or small your case is. He shows genuine concern and interest in his client and the situation. He is straight forward and honest. Zach was the third attorney on my case and the only one that actually took the time to become familiar with my case. He was not intimidated as my previous attorneys were and his competency resulted in my case ending in a very satisfying outcome.- Rylan Burrie
Have Questions?
We Have Answers!
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What should I do if my child was arrested?No parent wants their child to have to go through an ordeal like being arrested. When these situations do occur, it can be difficult to determine what the best course of action would be. The juvenile justice system is different from the adult justice system and so it is important that you have a legal representative who understands the juvenile system and can help you get through this time. Whether your child has been accused of DUI, a drug crime, a misdemeanor, or a felony, you will be able to have peace of mind knowing that we are there helping you every step of the way.
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Can I afford a criminal defense attorney?Another question you will have to consider when deciding which defense lawyer to handle your case is whether or not you can afford it. At The Meranda Law Firm LTD, we want to be able to provide reasonable rates to our clients so that you can get the help you need. In order to give you an idea of how much it will be, we will meet with you in a free consultation and discuss what kind of fees you could expect.
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How do I appeal my conviction?What should you do if you have already been convicted of a crime and have received your sentence? If you believe that justice was not served, your first step should be to contact our firm to see if we could help you appeal your case. Not every attorney takes on appeal cases they can be more complex and time-consuming than other cases. At The Meranda Law Firm LTD, however, we are committed to fighting for the rights of our clients, no matter how difficult the case. If you want us to look over your case, please contact our team as soon as possible.
