Nashville Shoplifting Attorney

Tenacious Defense Against Shoplifting Charges in Brentwood, Mount Juliet & Franklin

Department stores such as Wal-Mart, Target, Nordstrom, and The Green Wagon are becoming increasingly aggressive about prosecuting shoplifters. Depending on the value of the item you are accused of taking, you could be charged with a misdemeanor or a felony theft crime.

At May McKinney, our shoplifting lawyers in Nashville offer a confidential consultation to discuss your options following a shoplifting arrest. We work diligently to combat the charges against our clients and protect their reputations. We defend juveniles who are caught stealing, as well as adults who are accused of retail theft.

Call May & McKinney, PLLC today at (615) 265-6383 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our shoplifting attorney in Nashville!

What is Shoplifting?

Shoplifting occurs when an individual unlawfully takes merchandise or property from a retail establishment with the intent to deprive the owner of that property permanently. This offense encompasses a range of activities, from concealing items in pockets or bags to altering price tags or swapping packaging.

In Tennessee, shoplifting is classified based on the retail value of the stolen items:

• Petty Theft: Taking items with a retail value of $500 or less is considered petty theft, a misdemeanor. Petty theft convictions may result in fines, probation, and other penalties.
• Grand Theft: Taking items with a retail value of more than $500 is classified as grand theft, a felony. Grand theft convictions carry more severe consequences, including the possibility of fines, restitution, probation, and incarceration.

Shoplifting can take various forms, including:

• Concealment: Hiding merchandise with the intent to steal.
• Altering Price Tags: Changing or removing price tags to pay less than the item's value.
• Switching Packaging: Placing high-value items in cheaper packaging to pay less at the register.
• Employee Theft: Employees unlawfully take merchandise or provide unauthorized discounts.

Understanding the classification of shoplifting offenses in Tennessee is crucial, as it directly impacts an individual's potential legal consequences.

What are the Penalties for Shoplifting in Tennessee?

Being convicted of shoplifting in Tennessee can lead to significant legal consequences. Penalties vary based on different factors, such as the value of the stolen property and the individual's criminal history. At May & McKinney, PLLC, we strive to minimize the impact of these penalties through a comprehensive defense strategy. The potential penalties for shoplifting in Tennessee include:

• Misdemeanor or Felony Charges: Shoplifting charges, depending on the value of the stolen property, can range from misdemeanors to felonies
• Fines: Convicted individuals may face fines determined by the value of the stolen items.
• Restitution: Offenders may be required to compensate the retailer for the stolen merchandise.
• Probation: Individuals may be placed on probation, requiring adherence to specific conditions.
• Jail or Prison Time: Serious shoplifting offenses can result in incarceration, ranging from days to years.

Defenses Against Shoplifting Charges

At May & McKinney, PLLC, our experienced legal team employs a range of defenses to challenge shoplifting charges. It is essential to consult with a skilled attorney to determine the best strategy for your case. Some common defenses against shoplifting charges include:

• Lack of Intent: Proving that there was no intent to deprive the owner of the property permanently can be a strong defense strategy.
• Mistaken Identity: Demonstrating that the accused was misidentified as the perpetrator can cast doubt on the case.
• False Accusations: Sometimes, individuals may be wrongly accused due to misunderstandings or personal disputes.
• Insufficient Evidence: Challenging the prosecution's evidence, such as surveillance footage or witness testimonies, can weaken the case.
• Illegal Search and Seizure: Evidence may be deemed inadmissible if law enforcement violated the accused individual's rights during the investigation.

Contact Our Nashville Shoplifting Lawyer Today

Confronting shoplifting charges can be an overwhelming experience. Still, with the adept legal representation provided by May & McKinney, PLLC, individuals can confidently navigate the legal intricacies and strive for a favorable resolution. Our unwavering commitment to legal excellence guarantees our clients a meticulous and strategic defense tailored to their unique circumstances.

Contact May & McKinney, PLLC today to schedule a meeting with our shoplifting lawyer in Nashville!