Collin County Shoplifting Lawyer

Defending Against Shoplifting Charges in Texas

Being accused of shoplifting is a serious matter. If you have been accused of stealing from a store, you could face serious legal consequences. Even if you were falsely accused, you could still face civil damages. In addition to damaging your reputation, you could also face thousands of dollars in fines and even jail time. If you have been charged with shoplifting, contact our Collin County shoplifting attorney at McDaniel Law Group, PLLC, right away.

Call McDaniel Law Group, PLLC, today at (469) 960-4067 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our shoplifting attorney in Collin County.

What is Shoplifting?

Shoplifting, also known as retail theft, is the act of taking merchandise from a store without paying for it or intending to deprive the owner of the item without their consent. Shoplifting can take various forms, including:

• Concealing merchandise: Hiding items in clothing, bags, or personal belongings intending to steal them.
• Altering or switching price tags: Changing labels or barcodes to pay a lower price than the item's actual value.
• Leaving without payment: Exiting a store without paying for merchandise, whether by walking past cash registers or using deceptive tactics.
• Working with others: Collaborating to commit theft or act as a distraction.

Shoplifting Penalties in Texas

In Texas, the penalties for shoplifting may vary depending on the value of the stolen merchandise and prior criminal history. The following is an overview of potential penalties:

• Class C Misdemeanor: Theft of items valued at less than $100 is typically charged as a Class C misdemeanor, punishable by a fine that can reach up to $500.
• Class B Misdemeanor: If the stolen goods are worth between $100 and $750, it is considered a Class B misdemeanor, carrying a potential jail sentence of up to 180 days and a fine that can reach up to $2,000.
• Class A Misdemeanor: Shoplifting merchandise valued between $750 and $2,500 can result in a Class A misdemeanor charge, which may lead to a maximum jail term of one year and a fine that can reach up to $4,000.
• Felony Offense: Stealing items valued at $2,500 or more can result in felony charges. The level of felony depends on the value of the merchandise and may lead to significant fines and imprisonment.

Defenses for Shoplifting Accusations

Common defenses against shoplifting charges may include:

• Lack of Intent: Shoplifting requires intent to permanently deprive the owner of the merchandise. If it can be shown that you did not have the intent to steal, you may have a valid defense.
• Mistaken Identity: In some cases, individuals are wrongly accused of shoplifting due to mistaken identity. If you were not the person who committed the theft, this can be a powerful defense.
• Illegal Search and Seizure: If law enforcement or store security violated your Fourth Amendment rights during the investigation or arrest, evidence obtained may be suppressed, weakening the prosecution's case.
• Consent: If you had the store owner's consent to take an item without paying, it is not considered shoplifting.
• Age: Minors may be subject to different legal procedures, and their age may be a factor in the defense strategy.
• Civil Compromise: In some cases, working out an agreement with the store owner to repay the stolen value can lead to charges being dropped or reduced.

Contact Our Collin County Shoplifting Defense Attorney Today

If you or a loved one is facing shoplifting charges in Texas, it's essential to seek legal representation from an experienced theft crimes attorney. The consequences of a shoplifting conviction can be severe, impacting your future opportunities and personal life. At McDaniel Law Group, PLLC, our Collin County shoplifting lawyers understand the nuances of Texas law and will work tirelessly to protect your rights. Your future is worth defending; we are here to fight for you.

Contact McDaniel Law Group, PLLC, today to get started with our Collin County.