Repeat Offender? Why You Need a Strong Retail Theft Lawyer in Palm Beach
Repeat Offender? Why You Need a Strong Retail Theft Lawyer in Palm Beach
One mistake can ruin you, but the right retail theft lawyer palm beach can help you move forward. Keep reading to find out how.
Did you know? In Florida criminal law, stealing goods from a retail establishment, including shoplifting, is treated distinctly from other types of theft. The state has also strengthened its laws on retail theft to specifically address the growing trend of shoplifting and other diversions of merchandise from stores. (Source)
If you’ve been arrested and charged with retail theft, you need representation, whether it’s your first or second time. A retail theft lawyer may be what stands between you and jail.
Why You Need a Retail Theft Lawyer Palm Beach for Serious Theft Charges
Getting caught for shoplifting or other forms of retail theft is not something to be taken lightly. You might think it’s just a little item or a simple mistake. But in the eyes of the law, things are much more serious, especially in Palm Beach.
When you hire an experienced retail theft lawyer in Palm Beach, you give yourself a fighting chance. Here’s why:
- Judges and prosecutors are harsher on repeat offenders
- A criminal conviction can seriously affect your job prospects
- You could face steep fines, probation, or jail time
- You will have a permanent record unless your case is eligible to be sealed or expunged
And don’t think that being caught red-handed is the only way to be charged, you can be charged based on video, witness statements, or other suspicious behavior.
What Falls Under Retail Theft in Florida?
Retail theft is a broad legal term. It includes many actions beyond shoplifting. If you’re unsure whether your case qualifies, check this table:
Even minor actions, like walking out of a store with an item in your cart, can lead to criminal charges
.
First-Time Offender Retail Theft? Don’t Let One Mistake Ruin Everything
If you are a first-time offender of retail theft, you probably feel scared. Many first offenders freak out and plead guilty “to just get this over with.” That is a huge mistake.
Even a first charge can:
- Stay on your record
- Impact your opportunities for getting a job or renting a place
- Result in probation, community service, or fines
But the good news is: A solid theft defense attorney can fight to:
- Reduce the charge
- Enter a diversion program
- Seal or expunge your record
- Keep you out of jail
You are entitled to a second chance. Do not let fear, confusion, or uncertainty pressure you into a plea bargain that you will regret later.
Repeat Offender? Then You Need Aggressive Legal Defense
If you’ve been accused of retail theft before, then the situation is much worse. Florida courts are notoriously harsh when it comes to repeat offenders. Your case could even get filed as a felony charge if a criminal complaint can prove the amount stolen was greater than $750.
So, it is imperative that you hire an effective, qualified lawyer. An experienced attorney may:
- Challenge the prosecution’s evidence
- Argue against any criminal intent
- Expose bad police practices
- Negotiating a better deal, diversion or dismissal
They can present your version of events, giving you a voice to a legal system that is often uninterested in your point of view.
The Importance of Local Experience in Palm Beach
When it comes to defending against retail theft charges, consulting a person who primarily practices in Palm Beach can be invaluable. Here are a few reasons why local knowledge matters:
- Your lawyer knows the judges
- They have previously interacted with the prosecutors
- They know how the local courts operate
- They can predict how cases generally unfold
Knowing the law is one thing, but knowing how the legal system in Palm Beach really works is another.
Theft of Services Is Still a Crime, Don’t Take It Lightly
Think leaving a restaurant or walking out of a hotel without payment is harmless? Think again. Service theft, when someone utilizes a service but fails to pay for the services received, is treated exactly the same as shoplifting in Florida. Theft of services can involve:
- Leaving a restaurant without paying for the meal
- Not paying for a haircut
- Leaving a hotel without paying for your room or other services
- Utilizing a service while pretending to pay for the service, but purposely defaulting on payment
You can be arrested and charged the same as if you just left a store with some unpaid items. And yes, you will have to hire a theft defense attorney if you want it handled properly.
What Will Your Lawyer Actually Do?
When you hire a retail theft lawyer in Palm Beach, you are not just hiring someone to stand beside you in court. A good lawyer will do so much more:
- Review the facts of your case
- Examine any surveillance video, as well as witnesses’ written statements
- Argue any illegal searches or mistaken identities
- Negotiate with the prosecution
- Files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charges
- Defends passionately in the court
From start to finish, they do their best to make sure you get your fair shot.
Get the Best Help You Need!
If you really want to defend your freedom and your future, you need legal help. In Palm Beach, J & J Law Firm, P.A. has a solid reputation for theft and other criminal defense issues. We know the system and, more importantly, know how to beat it.
Whether you are a first-time offender of retail theft or have multiple offenses with serious charges, we have your back. Visit our website or contact us to set up your free consultation now.
Get the defense you deserve. Let us help you take control today.
FAQs
What constitutes retail theft in Florida?
Retail theft can involve shoplifting, switching price tags, return fraud, and even services like leaving a restaurant without paying.
Can my retail theft charge drop the first time?
Yes, if you have a good lawyer, first-time retail theft charges may qualify for dismissal, diversion program, or expungement.
Is theft of services as serious as shoplifting?
Yes. Florida law treats theft of services as a criminal offense. If guilty, you may have the same punishment as physical theft.
What should I do if I am a repeat offender?
Find a retail theft lawyer right now. Repeat offenders get stricter punishments. Having a strong defense is your most important opportunity to avoid jail.
Do I need a lawyer for minor theft?
Yes. A petty theft conviction will stay on your permanent record. However, an experienced retail theft lawyer in Palm Beach could reduce or eliminate the charge.