Shoplifting may seem like a harmless crime to some, and many young people make the mistake of thinking it is easy to get away with. However, getting caught is highly likely, and even minor shoplifting charges can result in short- and long-term impacts on your life, as well as classes, jail time, and fines.
When you or your loved one is facing an allegation of shoplifting, even if you never physically removed a product from a store, reach out to a Kennesaw shoplifting lawyer from Ghanouni Teen & Young Adult Defense Firm. Our qualified theft attorneys can carefully review the details of your situation to help you determine the best way to lessen the effects of shoplifting charges. Let our team work with you to ensure that one mistake does not hurt your college plans, career, or other goals for your future.
Shoplifting is just one of many definitions under state theft laws. According to the Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 16-8-2, shoplifting takes place the moment picks up a product with the intention of stealing it. This means you can be accused of shoplifting without even leaving the store. The seriousness of the case depends upon the value of the items involved in the alleged incident, as well as any prior shoplifting convictions.
When the stolen property is worth $500 or less, a conviction typically results in misdemeanor charges. Felony charges are possible when the property’s value exceeds $500, and individuals can face anything from one to ten years of jail time. In some instances, prosecutors can also assign felony-level charges for thefts that add up to $500 within six months, or to individuals who have three prior shoplifting convictions.
In addition to the civil penalties, a shoplifting conviction can lead to other negative impacts on a young person’s life. Thinking that a misdemeanor charge is minor is a mistake. It can potentially limit job opportunities and housing options, and lead to the loss of scholarships. The stigma that is associated with stealing can also be damaging since it could lead others to consider an individual to be untrustworthy. A compassionate Kennesaw shoplifting attorney understands that teenagers and young adults make mistakes and will work to move past the situation in the best way possible.
Most people imagine shoplifting as someone taking an item from a store without paying. While this is correct, other actions can result in law enforcement bringing theft charges. Some of these examples include:
It is also important to note that the way a shoplifting charge is heard will depend on the accused’s age. Individuals 16 and younger will generally have their cases move forward in Juvenile Court. Some aspects of Juvenile Court function in much the same way as adult criminal court, where other aspects of Juvenile Court are very different. Having a legal team that understands these differences is key to getting the best results in juvenile court.
Young people 17 and older will be heard in adult court and face a criminal record that can follow them for the rest of their lives, as well as other more severe penalties, such as jail time. A focused attorney near Kennesaw can help you and your family better understand your options when facing a shoplifting charge and how to minimize their impacts on your life now and in the future.
The Ghanouni Teen & Young Adult Defense Firm specializes in helping teenagers and young adults move beyond their mistakes to achieve bright and fulfilling futures. Our Kennesaw shoplifting lawyers can carefully assess every aspect of your situation and answer any questions you have about the process while helping you determine the best path forward.
You deserve legal representation on your side who will not judge you but provide hope and understanding instead. Our team is here to help. Call today to schedule a consultation, so we can determine if working together is a good fit for everyone involved.
Ghanouni Teen & Young Adult Defense Firm
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