Chicago Shoplifting Lawyer

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Whether the stolen property is worth a lot or a little, shoplifting is a serious charge. A conviction could result in a criminal record that affects your life for years, and you could face jail time. If you have been charged with shoplifting, your choice of defense attorney matters. Seek immediate legal help from a Chicago shoplifting lawyer at Price Benowitz.

Shoplifting Under State Law

Shoplifting in Chicago is charged under state law. The charges you face will depend on the value of the alleged stolen property. If the property is worth more than $300, you could even be charged with a felony. While every shoplifting charge is serious, factors beyond your control could determine the severity of the charge.

To secure your conviction, the prosecutor must prove that you knowingly took merchandise—or caused it to be taken—and that you intended to permanently deprive the retailer of the merchandise’s full value. The prosecutor must prove that you knew what you were doing. In other words, you cannot be convicted of shoplifting if you did not intend to take the property or deprive the store of its value.

Examples of Shoplifting

An experienced attorney could tell you that retail theft in Chicago is not just about taking unpaid items from a store. You can be charged for attempting to avoid paying the full price for items, including altering or swapping price tags, using a device—such as a booster bag—to evade detection, and returning stolen items for a refund.

The key factor is intent. Charges can cover a broader range of actions than you might expect, and the prosecution must establish intent for a conviction.

What Are the Consequences of a Shoplifting Conviction?

If the alleged value of the stolen goods is $300 or less, the offense is a Class A misdemeanor. A conviction can result in a fine of up to $2,500 and up to one year in jail. If the value exceeds $300, it was a repeat alleged offense, or an emergency exit was used to leave the store, you could face a Class 3 or Class 4 felony charge. A Class 3 felony can carry one to three years in prison, while a Class 4 felony can carry a fine of up to $25,000 and two to five years in prison.

In addition to shoplifting charges, the store’s attorneys could sue you in a Chicago civil court to recover the value of the merchandise stolen, even if it was just $100. You could also be required to pay the store’s legal fees. Remember, too, that any conviction becomes part of your permanent record. This could affect your:

• Immigration status
• Acceptance into college or other educational programs
• Job prospects
• Approval for a loan, home mortgage, or apartment rental

Many employers, schools, banks, and property managers may view a shoplifting conviction as indicating dishonesty, regardless of the circumstances.

How a Shoplifting Lawyer Could Help

As Chicago criminal defense attorneys who focus on retail theft cases, the legal team at Price Benowitz takes the time to review your full account of events, conduct a thorough investigation, and clearly explain your rights and options. In court, our lawyers work to create doubt at every step—for example, challenging intent or addressing mistaken identity. Before and after court hearings, if it is in your best interests, they could negotiate for a plea bargain that reduces potential charges. They may also advocate for alternatives such as a diversion program or deferred prosecution.

A great deal can happen in the early stages of your case that could affect your legal rights, so it is crucial to hire a seasoned lawyer as soon as possible after being charged.

Contact a Chicago Shoplifting Attorney Today for a Free Case Evaluation

A shoplifting charge could lead to jail, damage your reputation, and make it harder to find work and housing. You need to protect yourself by hiring a skilled Chicago shoplifting lawyer.

The dedicated legal team at Price Benowitz can help you address the situation and work toward the best possible outcome. Contact one of our attorneys now to schedule a free case evaluation.