Southgate Retail Fraud Lawyer

If you’re facing retail fraud charges in Southgate, you need an experienced lawyer to defend you. Retail fraud is a serious criminal charge in Michigan, and it can carry significant penalties, including fines, jail time, and a criminal record. The Law Office of Julian Poota specializes in defending clients against retail fraud charges. We provide aggressive, strategic defense to help reduce or dismiss your charges.

What is Retail Fraud?

Retail fraud, also known as shoplifting, involves stealing merchandise from a store or using deceptive practices to avoid paying for items. In Michigan, retail fraud is classified into two degrees:

• First-degree retail fraud: This occurs when the value of stolen goods exceeds $1,000. It is a felony and can lead to significant penalties, including prison time.
• Second-degree retail fraud: This involves stolen goods valued at less than $1,000. It is typically a misdemeanor, but it still carries penalties, such as fines or jail time.

Even if you did not intend to steal, you may still be charged with retail fraud. A skilled defense lawyer can work to challenge the evidence or argue for reduced charges.

Consequences of a Retail Fraud Conviction

The penalties for retail fraud in Southgate can be severe, depending on the degree of the offense:

• First-degree retail fraud: This felony charge can result in up to 5 years in prison, fines up to $10,000, or both.
• Second-degree retail fraud: This misdemeanor charge can lead to up to 1 year in jail, fines up to $2,000, or both.
• Probation: In some cases, instead of jail time, individuals may face probation, which can include community service, fines, and regular check-ins with probation officers.
• Criminal record: A conviction for retail fraud will leave you with a permanent criminal record, affecting your future employment opportunities and reputation.

Retail fraud charges can also result in civil penalties, such as being banned from the store or being required to pay restitution.

Why You Need a Southgate Retail Fraud Lawyer

Retail fraud cases are complex, and a skilled defense lawyer can make a big difference in the outcome of your case. At The Law Office of Julian Poota, we offer strong defense strategies:

• Investigate the evidence: We’ll carefully examine the facts of your case, including store surveillance footage, witness statements, and police reports.
• Challenge the charges: We will challenge the evidence presented by the prosecution, looking for errors or inconsistencies.
• Negotiate for reduced charges: If the evidence against you is strong, we may be able to negotiate for a plea deal that reduces the severity of your charges.
• Seek alternatives to jail: If you’re convicted, we’ll work to secure alternatives like probation or diversion programs rather than jail time.

Having a skilled lawyer by your side can help you avoid harsh penalties and protect your future.

Why Choose The Law Office of Julian Poota?

Julian Poota is a seasoned criminal defense lawyer who has successfully defended clients against retail fraud charges in Southgate. We understand Michigan’s retail fraud laws and use our experience to provide aggressive and effective legal representation. At The Law Office of Julian Poota, we are dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for your case.

We offer free initial consultations, so don’t hesitate to contact us today if you face retail fraud charges in Southgate.

Southgate Criminal Matters Are Heard at the 28th District Court

Address: 14720 Reaume Parkway Southgate, Michigan 48195 
Phone: 734-258-3068
Link to Southgate District Court