Working to Protect Your Criminal Record From Shoplifting or Retail Theft Charges
- Were you charged with retail theft in a grocery store, department store or other retail store?
- Was your son or daughter arrested for violating Pennsylvania's shoplifting law at the mall?
- Have you been accused of changing price tags, removing labels or other actions to defraud a merchant or retailer?
- Have you been arrested for retail theft and you have a prior theft conviction on your record?
If this is your first shoplifting charge, you may think that it isn't that important to fight it, even if you are innocent. You may be tempted to pay the fine and forget the whole thing. However, retail theft is a crime that remains on your record for the rest of your life if you plead guilty. Potential employers, landlords and others will be able to see your arrest and conviction record when doing a simple background check. Being labeled a shoplifter can be embarrassing and may even affect your future success. If this is your second or third theft offense, you could be facing serious criminal charges and a serious penalty.
Don't plead guilty without first speaking to an experienced criminal defense lawyer. Call 610-239-8870 or contact me today for a free and completely confidential evaluation. I look forward to discussing the facts surrounding your arrest and your options for defense against retail theft or shoplifting charges in the Norristown area.
Accessible and Effective Criminal Defense Representation
I am Basil D. Beck III. As an experienced defense lawyer, I know Pennsylvania's criminal statutes and the loss-prevention techniques that stores use to nab shoplifters. Most importantly, I am skilled at mounting an effective defense against retail theft and other criminal charges. After reviewing your situation, I will give you an honest appraisal of your chances of success in court and recommend how you should proceed.
The Consequences of a Theft Conviction in Pennsylvania
The possible sentences for a theft crime can range from up to 90 days in jail to up to 7 years in prison. The sentence will depend upon the value of the property stolen and whether it is your first, second or third offense. I defend clients against a wide range of retail theft charges, including:
- Stealing property under $150.00 (Summary Offense)
- Retail theft of items over $150 but less than $2,000 (First Degree Misdemeanor)
- Theft of merchandise worth over $2000 (Third Degree Felony)
- Car or auto theft or theft of a gun or firearm (Felony)
- Second or third offenses
- Employee theft or embezzlement charges
If this is the first time you have been charged with retail theft, you may be eligible for Accelerated Rehabilitation Disposition (ARD). ARD permits you to avoid jail time and have the theft conviction cleared from your record if you meet all the requirements and conditions.
For aggressive defense against charges of retail theft or shoplifting in the Norristown area, contact my office to schedule a meeting with an experienced criminal law attorney.
