Ann Arbor, MI Shoplifting/Retail Fraud Lawyer

Shoplifting/Retail Fraud Lawyer for Ann Arbor, MI

In Ann Arbor, all misdemeanor cases involving shoplifting or retail fraud are heard at the 15th District Court, while felony cases are escalated to the 22nd Circuit Court. Retail fraud, commonly known as shoplifting in Michigan, can have substantial implications for personal and professional reputations. Fortunately, our attorney at The Law Office of Julien J. Poota brings 18 years of experience in addressing these issues and is prepared to offer assistance. As a fully licensed Michigan law firm, we are committed to safeguarding the rights of clients across Ann Arbor who are facing accusations of retail fraud.

Shoplifting and Retail Fraud Cases in Ann Arbor

Allegations of shoplifting and retail fraud, which may involve tactics like price tag switching, bring forth significant consequences that extend well beyond mere legal penalties. These charges can deeply impact various facets of your life, potentially impeding job prospects and endangering financial stability. Additionally, the looming possibility of incarceration or substantial fines adds considerable pressure to an already difficult scenario. It is imperative to approach these accusations with the utmost seriousness and enlist the guidance of experienced legal representation to effectively navigate the complexities of the legal system.

At The Law Office of Julian J. Poota, we understand the significant impact that shoplifting and retail fraud charges can have on individuals’ lives. Leveraging our extensive experience in handling such cases, we are committed to offering comprehensive support and tailored defense strategies to address your unique circumstances. Our dedication extends beyond legal representation; we strive to mitigate the long-term consequences of these charges on your personal and professional future. You can rely on our team to tirelessly advocate for your rights and diligently work towards achieving the best possible outcome for your case. We comprehend the complexities involved and are here to guide you through every step of the legal process with compassion and expertise.

Shoplifting and Retail Fraud Degrees and Penalties in Ann Arbor, 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 Ann Arbor Shoplifting and Retail Fraud Charges

If you or someone you know needs a shoplifting or retail fraud lawyer in Ann Arbor, 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 15th District Court

The 15th District Court is located at 301 E. Huron Street, P.O. Box 8650, Ann Arbor, MI 48107

The 15th District Court judges are:

Honorable Joseph F. Burke

Honorable Miriam A. Perry

Honorable Karen Quinlan Valvo

Shoplifting/Retail Fraud Lawyer for the 22nd Circuit Court

The 22nd Circuit Court is located at 101 E Huron St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104

The 22nd Circuit Court judges are:

Honorable Patrick J. Conlin

Honorable Timothy P. Connors

Honorable Carol Kuhnke

Honorable Darlene A. O’Brien

Honorable Julia B. Owdziej

Honorable Arianne E. Slay

Honorable Tracy E. Van Den Bergh