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Ann Arbor Shoplifting Attorney
Criminal Lawyers Defending Retail Fraud Charges in Ann Arbor
While shoplifting is often seen as a petty teenage crime, the penalties you could face if convicted of retail fraud in Ann Arbor are extremely serious. Contact Grabel & Associates now if you or your child is facing shoplifting accusations, and fight for a beneficial case outcome. Under the direction of trial attorney Scott Grabel, our experienced defense attorneys in Ann Arbor will guide you through the steps you need to take to guard against wrongful conviction or unjust sentencing, and we know exactly what a judge will be looking for if your case goes to court. Work with a top attorney in Ann Arbor who will stand with you throughout the criminal process and guard your rights and freedom.
The specific punishments you could face will depend greatly on the details of your shoplifting case, but in most cases can involve jail time and fines far in excess of the price of the good or goods that had been stolen. It is important to speak to a shoplifting attorney before speaking with police or taking any other action in your case, which is why we are committed to 24/7 availability. Without a lawyer, you could be up against a much more difficult and complex situation than you imagined, lacking a knowledgeable legal resource on your side. Our skilled lawyers are always available to answer any questions you may have, and we will make sure you receive the most comprehensive Ann Arbor shoplifting defense representation possible. Contact Grabel & Associates now for a free initial case consultation.
Retail Fraud (Shoplifting) Charge in Ann Arbor
The act of shoplifting is punished as “retail fraud” in Michigan, and includes more than just stealing from a store. Anyone who removes or replaces a price, or otherwise alters the price of a good in a store with intent to not pay full price is just as guilty of retail fraud as someone who steals an item from a store. While many may view this act as a childish mistake, Michigan law harshly punishes offenders through fines, jail time, a criminal record, and more.
There are three degrees of shoplifting offense in Ann Arbor, MI, and the specific charge you face will depend on the value of the item stolen. When the value is under $200 or the price difference after alteration is under $200, charges of retail fraud in the third degree will result. If the price difference or value is between $200 and $1,000, charges of second degree retail fraud will result. If the value or price alteration is over $1,000, a person can face felony first degree retail fraud charges.
Criminal Penalties for Retail Fraud in Michigan
If you are convicted of shoplifting, you can face the following penalties:
3rd degree retail fraud: up to 93 days imprisonment and a fine of $500 or 3 times the value of the stolen good or price difference, whichever is greater.
2nd degree retail fraud: up to one year imprisonment and a fine of $2,000 or 3 times the value of stolen item or difference in price, whichever is greater.
1st degree retail fraud: up to five years in jail and a potential fine of $10,000 or 3 times the value of the stolen property or alteration to the price, whichever is greater.
Grabel & Associates knows what it takes to win in tough shoplifting cases throughout the state of Michigan, and we will begin working right now to protect you against harmful accusations and wrongful conviction. Don’t hesitate to contact a lawyer as the best case outcome may only be available for a short period of time. Grabel & Associates is ready now to begin utilizing proven strategies to protect you in your criminal case.
Our Approach to Shoplifting Charges in Ann Arbor
No matter what the specific details of your case, it is critical that you take your charges seriously and immediately speak with a lawyer who also will take your case seriously. For over a decade our team has been working to defend Michigan’s accused in all kinds of criminal cases, including retail fraud cases. We know what it takes to achieve an exceptional result, and will utilize the most innovative and effective legal strategies to ensure you have every opportunity to walk away with a great case outcome. Our attorneys’ skill has been proven in countless past cases, and as our results demonstrate, we know how to win in Ann Arbor courts. Our team will immediately begin working to understand your case and develop a plan based on your legal goals as soon as you contact our law firm.
Contact Us 24/7 for Legal Help
To speak with a member of our qualified team now, call 1-800-342-7897 or contact us online. We are ready now to begin working with you to guide you to an outstanding case result. Don’t hesitate to contact our team as the early stages of your shoplifting case could be critical. Grabel & Associates is a premier choice for criminal defense, and will provide you with an unmatched level of individualized service throughout the criminal process.
