Clarkston, MI Shoplifting/Retail Fraud Lawyer

Shoplifting/Retail Fraud Lawyer for Clarkston, Michigan

In Clarkston, Michigan, misdemeanor cases involving shoplifting or retail fraud are addressed at the 52nd 2nd District Court, while felony cases are elevated to the 6th Circuit Court. Retail fraud, commonly known as shoplifting, carries significant consequences for personal and professional reputation. Fortunately, our attorney at The Law Office of Julian J. Poota possesses 18 years of experience in handling such cases and is ready to provide guidance. As a fully licensed Michigan law firm, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of clients throughout Clarkston who are confronting allegations of retail fraud.

Shoplifting and Retail Fraud Cases in Clarkston

Accusations related to shoplifting and retail fraud, which may involve tactics like price tag switching, reach beyond mere legal consequences. These charges can disrupt various aspects of life, affecting employment opportunities and financial stability. Additionally, the looming threat of imprisonment or substantial fines adds to the stress of an already challenging situation. It is crucial to approach these allegations seriously and seek guidance from experienced legal professionals to effectively navigate the complexities of the legal system.

At The Law Office of Julian J. Poota, PLLC, we recognize the significant impact that accusations of shoplifting and retail fraud can inflict on individuals’ lives. Utilizing our extensive expertise in managing such cases, we are committed to offering comprehensive support and developing tailored defense strategies to address your unique circumstances. Our commitment extends beyond mere legal representation; we endeavor to alleviate the lasting consequences of these charges on your personal and professional future. You can trust our team to advocate fervently for your rights and diligently pursue the best possible outcome for your case. With our profound understanding of the intricacies involved, we are here to assist you through every stage of the legal process with empathy and proficiency.

Shoplifting and Retail Fraud Degrees and Penalties in Clarkston, 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 Clarkston Shoplifting and Retail Fraud Charges

If you or someone you know needs a shoplifting or retail fraud lawyer in Clarkston, 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 52nd 2nd District Court

The 52nd 2nd District Court is located at 5850 Lorac Dr., City of the Village of Clarkston, MI 48346

The 52nd 2nd District Court judges are:

Honorable Joseph G. Fabrizio

Honorable Kelley Kostin

Shoplifting/Retail Fraud Lawyer for the 6^th Circuit Court

The 6^th Circuit Court is located at 1200 N. Telegraph, Pontiac, MI 48341

The 6^th Circuit Court judges are:

 Honorable Martha D. Anderson

Honorable Mary Ellen Brennan

Honorable David M. Cohen

Honorable Jacob James Cunningham

Honorable Nanci J. Grant

Honorable Jeffery S. Matis

Honorable Cheryl A. Matthews

Honorable Phyllis McMillen

Honorable Daniel Patrick O’Brien

Honorable Yasmine I. Poles

Honorable Kwame L. Rowe

Honorable Victoria A. Valentine

Honorable Michael Warren

Honorable Michael West

We can be reached 24/7 at 888-399-7979 for a free consultation regarding your Clarkston shoplifting or retail fraud case.