Shoplifting Attorney in Fort Lauderdale

Shoplifting Charges & Penalties

Have you been accused of stealing something from a store or business? It is relatively easy for someone to make this criminal accusation, and you may have been mistakenly accused. Regardless of the circumstances that led to your arrest, it is important to have the assistance of a defense attorney who knows how to defend your rights. The penalties for shoplifting in Fort Lauderdale and throughout Florida vary depending on the worth of what was stolen and your criminal record.

In order for a crime to be classified as shoplifting, it must include the intentional theft of property of the concealment of property that is known to be for sale at a store or business. Removing price tags on clothing or switching the labels on clothing to pay a lesser price is also considered shoplifting. The person or business who accuses someone of shoplifting must be able to prove that there was an intent to steal. If you have been arrested for shoplifting, a Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyer from our firm may be able to help you prove that there was no such intent present in your situation.

The Power to Fight. The Knowledge to Win.

In many shoplifting cases, the major question involved is whether or not the individual actually intended to steal or conceal the property. When this intent is evident, an individual may be charged with shoplifting even though the actual act of shoplifting has not occurred. Many stores will use surveillance cameras and undercover officers to catch individuals who are attempting to hide or steal merchandise before they are able to leave the store.

Regardless of the circumstances surrounding your arrest, the legal team at Parks & Braxton, PA can provide the legal counsel and defense you need to challenge shoplifting charges. If the case against you is not concrete, we may be able to get your charges reduced to trespassing or dismissed altogether. The majority of shoplifting charges are proven by store video cameras, staff, security or other shoppers. If you are convicted, you may face a first degree or second degree misdemeanor with a sentence of up to one year in jail.

Contact a Fort Lauderdale shoplifting lawyer at Parks & Braxton, PA today to schedule your free consultation!