Charlotte Shoplifting Defense Attorney
Larceny Defense Lawyer in Charlotte, NC - (704) 313-1131
When you are facing shoplifting charges, it is good to know what to expect.
Shoplifting is a theft offense that charged as a misdemeanor when the
value of the merchandise is less than $1,000. In the state of North Carolina,
these most often are either unlawful concealment or larceny charges. You
can be charged with this
theft offense even if you never left the store.
The following types of shoplifting situations may be charged as a felony:
- Crimes in which the stolen merchandise is of high enough value.
- Crimes in which the security device was tampered with.
- Crimes in which the merchandise was stolen through an emergency exit.
An individual charged with shoplifting or unlawful concealment faces the
prospect of jail time if convicted.
Types of Shoplifting Charges
It is in your best interest to retain a competent defense lawyer immediately
if you are facing:
- Shoplifting
- Unlawful concealment
- Larceny by an employee
When the charge is larceny, the State must prove beyond a reasonable doubt
that the person intended to permanently deprive the owner of the items
or property. This means the criminal intent, not just the act of picking
items up off a shelf or concealing them, must be proved.
A charge of unlawful concealment involves a person purposely placing an
item in a place where a store worker would not reasonably be able to see
it, like in a purse. Most times, the person is stopped before even leaving
the store. The crime is said to have occurred at the time of concealment.
Many times, concealment is not done on purpose. That is not a crime. The
state does not have to prove anything further as to the intent of the
person charged. This is a key distinction from a larceny charge.
Attorney Robert DeCurtins began his career as a security director in one
of the largest retail store operations in the country. He trained and
supervised an entire staff of "store detectives" who apprehended
"shoplifters." He was also responsible for investigating all
accusations of larceny by employees. This experience levels the playing
field when determining whether or not mistakes were made that can benefit clients.
Penalties for Shoplifting in North Carolina
Although shoplifting is generally a misdemeanor offense, it may still carry
the potential for an active jail sentence. Frequently, Mr. DeCurtins is
able to work out negotiations with the prosecutor for dismissal of such
charges. Attorney DeCurtins may then be able to completely clear (or expunge)
the charge from the accused's record.
Possible penalties for shoplifting crimes include:
- Fines
- Jail
- Restitution
- Probation
- Community service
- Permanent criminal record
Know that this charge can follow you around for the rest of your life,
and limit your options to get a good job or attend school. You deserve
a skilled Charlotte theft crime attorney to fight hard for your rights.
DeCurtins Law Office can act as your advocate throughout the process to
have your shoplifting charges dismissed or lessened.
Fighting for the Fairest Outcome
Do not let a mistake, or a poor lapse of judgment, change the rest of your
life. Many of Mr. DeCurtins' clients did not even know they were "shoplifting."
For example, a mother puts an item in the bottom of her stroller and she
forgets. These types of cases are not the same as someone setting out
with criminal intent. DeCurtins Law Office offers a free consultation
to thoroughly discuss the merits of your case and let you know the best
way to move forward. It is wise to talk to Mr. DeCurtins before giving
statements to police or store personnel.
The burden of proof in these cases is on the state to prove each and every
element of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. The bold legal team at
DeCurtins Law Office will work every angle within the justice system to
provide a solid defense. Not every crime is one size fits all, and the
punishment should not be either. Charlotte Attorney Robert J. DeCurtins
can zealously negotiate with the state for the most lenient options, and
strive to avoid any shoplifting conviction on your criminal record.
DeCurtins Law Office Is on Your Side
At
DeCurtins Law Office, the criminal defense lawyer has more than 30 years defending thousands
of criminal charges. He can defend your theft crimes charge with zeal.
Call DeCurtins Law Office if you've been accused of shoplifting in
Charlotte, Monroe, or Gastonia.
The firm can be reached at (704) 313-1131 or after hours at (704) 508-9131.