Detroit, MI Shoplifting/Retail Fraud Lawyer

Shoplifting/Retail Fraud Lawyer for Detroit, Michigan

In Detroit, Michigan, misdemeanor cases concerning shoplifting or retail fraud are processed at the 36th District Court, while felony cases are elevated to the 3rd Circuit Court. Retail fraud, often known as shoplifting in the state, carries substantial implications for personal and professional integrity. Thankfully, our attorney at The Law Office of Julian J. Poota boasts 18 years of experience in managing such cases and is ready to provide assistance. As a fully licensed Michigan law firm, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of clients across Detroit who are confronted with allegations of retail fraud.

Shoplifting and Retail Fraud Cases in Detroit

Accusations of shoplifting and retail fraud, which may involve tactics like price tag switching, entail consequences that reach far beyond mere legal penalties. These charges have the potential to significantly disrupt various aspects of your life, potentially hindering job opportunities and jeopardizing financial stability. Furthermore, the looming threat of imprisonment or substantial fines adds considerable stress to an already challenging scenario. It’s crucial to address these charges with the utmost seriousness and seek the guidance of experienced legal representation to navigate the complexities of the legal system effectively.

At The Law Office of Julian J. Poota, PLLC, we recognize the profound impact that allegations of shoplifting and retail fraud can have on individuals’ lives. Drawing upon our extensive experience in handling such cases, we are committed to providing comprehensive support and crafting customized defense strategies tailored to address your unique circumstances. Our dedication transcends mere legal representation; we strive to minimize the long-term consequences of these charges on your personal and professional future. You can rely on our team to advocate tirelessly for your rights and diligently work towards achieving the best possible outcome for your case. With our deep understanding of the complexities involved, we are here to guide you through every step of the legal process with compassion and expertise.

Shoplifting and Retail Fraud Degrees and Penalties in Detroit, MI

A first degree shoplifting charge occurs when a person does any of the following:

• While the store is open to the public, alters, transfers, removes and replaces, conceals, or in any other way misrepresents the price of an item with the intent to not pay for the item or to pay less than the actual price, when the resulting difference is over $1,000.
• While the store is open to the public, steals an item from the store priced at $1,000 or more.
• With intent to defraud, obtains or attempts to obtain money or store property as a refund or exchange for property that was not paid for and belongs to that store, if the amount of money or price of property to be obtained is $1,000 or more.

First Degree Retail Fraud (felony): Jail time of up to 5 years and a potential fine of either $10,000 or three times the value of the stolen property, whichever is greater.

A second degree Michigan shoplifting charge occurs when the accused has done any of the following:

• While the store is open to the public, alters, transfers, removes and replaces, conceals, or in any other way misrepresents the price of an item with the intent to not pay for the item or to pay less than the actual price, when the resulting difference is between $200 and $1,000
• While the store is open to the public, steals an item from the store priced between $200 and $1,000.
• With intent to defraud, obtains or attempts to obtain money or store property as a refund or exchange for property that was not paid for and belongs to that store, if the amount of money or price of property to be obtained is between $200 and $1,000.

Second Degree Retail Fraud (misdemeanor): Jail time of up to 1 year and a potential fine of either $2,000 or three times the value of the stolen property, whichever is greater.

Retail fraud in the third degree occurs when a person does any of the following:

• While the store is open to the public, alters, transfers, removes and replaces, conceals, or in any other way misrepresents the price of an item with the intent to not pay for the item or to pay less than the actual price, when the resulting difference is less than $200.
• While the store is open to the public, steals an item from the store priced at under $200.
• With intent to defraud, obtains or attempts to obtain money or store property as a refund or exchange for property that was not paid for and belongs to that store, if the amount of money or price of property to be obtained is under $200.

Third Degree Retail Fraud (misdemeanor): Jail time of up to 93 days and a potential fine of either $500 or three times the value of the stolen property, whichever is greater.

Contact us for Detroit, Michigan Shoplifting and Retail Fraud Charges

If you or someone you know needs a shoplifting or retail fraud lawyer in Detroit, Michigan, our experienced attorney at The Law Office of Julian J. Poota, PLLC can help you. We offer clients a free initial consultation. To discuss your current legal situation, call us at (888) 399-7979 or contact us online.

Shoplifting/Retail Fraud Attorney for the 36th District Court

The 36th District Court is located at 421 Madison St, Detroit, MI 48226

Shoplifting/Retail Fraud Lawyer for the 3rd Circuit Court

The 3rd Circuit Court is located at 1441 St. Antoine, Detroit, MI 48226