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.
Our Clients Say It Best
Read Our Client Testimonials
At May McKinney, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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"You Have Proven Yourself"Thanks once more for your ability to get it reduced and if I ever need legal assistance in the future, you have proven yourself to me.- A.W.
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"Rob McKinney in an amazing attorney he will always be my first choice!"I seriously can’t give this guy enough credit! I’ve made a few bad choices in my lifetime before I got it together and I’ve had rob mckinney represent me for most of it. No doubt at all that he’s the best man for the job. He’s got me the best possible outcome and always went above and beyond for me every step of the way. Rob is such a genuine person and truly cares! If you’re looking for a great lawyer look no further mr. McKinney is your guy!- Josh woods
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"No Nonsense, Knowledgable & Organized"Savannah was absolutely amazing! She made me feel at ease during a very stressful time, reassuring me every step of the way that my case was in good hands. Her confidence in achieving the best outcome was completely justified. I reached out frequently with questions and she or the team always responded promptly and thoroughly. On top of their exceptional service, their pricing was better than any other law firm I contacted. I would recommend May McKinney a thousand times over!- Matthew C.
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"On more than one occasion, you treated me like kin. It meant more than you both will ever know."On more than one occasion, you treated me like kin. It meant more than you both will ever know.- Satisfied Client
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"Amazing service"Rob McKinney is the best criminal attorney in Nashville area. I had 7 cases and he got them dismissed right away! He made the trip to Clarksville from Nashville and saved me from loosing my green card. His experience, his dedication, knowledge and caring heart is unmatched. I am forever grateful!- PF
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"Look no further, Rob McKinney is the defense attorney you need."As a LEO wife, I was served with a frivolous OP from an estranged step family member. With the possibility of my husband not being able to process any firearms in our household, Mr McKinney's understanding the severity of the situation, Rob took the time to investigate and prepare for the hearing. With that said, Rob absolutely destroyed the petitioner and witnesses on the stand. It was worth the time, money and stress to see Rob in action. If the need ever arises in the future, Rob will always be our first call. You cannot go wrong putting your trust in Mr. McKinney.- Tara
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"Truly Grateful"There are precious times in our lives when we are blessed with people who make a difference.- Nathan
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"Knowledgeable, Kind & Real"Her recommendations on how to proceed were spot on, and we got a favorable outcome.- Satisfied Client
