Shoplifting is something that is all too common in our society. It is the crime of stealing, or attempting to steal products or goods from a store. This could be something as little as a pack of cigarettes to something as large as a big screen television. There are certain precautions that stores take to stop shoplifting as well as state charges but this has not completely dissolved the threat of shoplifting. In 2008, there were over 2000 cases of larceny and theft in Minneapolis for every 100,000 people, many of which were shoplifting charges. It’s important to understand that shoplifting is a serious offence, even if you are taking something as small as t-shirt or a pen from a store; if you are arrested for shoplifting, you could be charged with either a misdemeanor or a felony.
Shoplifting as Petty Theft and Grand Theft
Shoplifting can be classified as a petty theft, or a misdemeanor, as well as grand theft, or a felony. So what is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony? A misdemeanor accounts for petty theft which happens if you shoplift goods with a value less than $400. For larger-priced items, you will be charged with a grand theft or larceny felony charge and will most likely suffer stricter penalties.
It is important to understand that both misdemeanors and felonies are punishable by the state of Minnesota. Many people think that a misdemeanor acts as your ‘warning’ but this is not necessarily the case. You may go to jail or be forced to pay a fine regardless of whether you are charged with misdemeanor and felony. The severity of your punishment will depend on your criminal history as well as your representation in the court case. It’s critical that you choose a theft lawyer in Minnesota that has the experience in court to do you justice.
Crime and Punishment for Shoplifting in Minneapolis
There are several different types of punishment for shoplifting in Minnesota. One of the most obvious ones is a fine. You may be responsible for payment of restitution to the merchant in which you stole from. Another punishment is serving jail time. This can be a harsh and painful punishment, especially for those who have only stolen a small item or for those who is on their first offense. A final option could be community service which requires you to give back to the community by putting in unpaid working hours.
If this is your first crime or if you have an excellent theft lawyer, then you may be put on probation and avoid jail time, community service or even a fine. Of course, every situation is different and thus every shoplifting case is treated in a different manner.
Shoplifting Lawyers and Defense Attorneys Minneapolis
If you have been charged with shoplifting then it is important to contact a Minnesota criminal defense lawyer immediately. A theft lawyer will work on your behalf to protect you, interview essential witnesses and address the key factors to your case. Call our law firm today and speak to our experienced Minnesota Shoplifting Lawyer, Martin S. Azarian Criminal Defense, P.A. at 952-451-4987.
