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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"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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"If your looking for a great lawyer, stop looking & hire these guys!"I can’t thank Rob Mckinney enough for all of his help with my case . I had never been in trouble before, & was very leery on paying for a lawyer, but from the moment I hired them, until my case was over, I never regretted my decision to have them represent me. Both Rob & Shyanne took every one of my phone calls, & answered every question that I ever could possibly come up. I was an emotional mess from the get go, and probably asked 1000 more questions than necessary, but they took the time to go through absolutely everything with me, and never made me feel like I was wasting their time or that I was inferior to them. Their knowledge, wisdom and guidance was so comforting & helped me with the stress of the legal process. My case took 2 years & 13 court appearances, so it was not an easy journey, but they made me feel at ease the entire time, & in the end, the charges were dropped. Thank you ! - Lisa F (aka super satisfied client)- Lisa F
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"Held my hand every step of the way in one of the most horrible times in my life."There are no words to express how grateful I am to Rob McKinney. He was there for me when I was confronted with a very difficult time in my life. Rob fought long and hard to prove the good of my situation. His team was behind me every step of the way during the long drawn out time frame. Rob never gave up on me and made me feel cared about through every obstacle we faced. I am very confident that he is now someone who I can call "a Friend" for life. The best word to use in description of Rob is AWESOME!- Barbara N.
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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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"Best criminal lawyer in Nashville."I have met with Mr. McKinney during a very difficult time. I was welcomed with open arms. Aside from being the best lawyer, he is a very caring person. He accomplished the impossible in my case. He worked relentlessly and brought my charges down from a serious felony to a misdemeanor. Which is unheard of from what I understand. I would have faced deportation but with his expertise and commitment to my case now I can become a citizen. Rob McKinney and his team gave me a second chance in life! For that I am forever grateful.- Pinar James
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"No Nonsense, Willful & Determined"My reputation is restored thanks to Ms. Riddle and May McKinney.- Mark
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"Rob McKinney did an exceptional job! Not only did he get the best outcome possible for my case, he had skilled knowledge to answer all my questions about my nursing license along the way!"Rob McKinney did an exceptional job! I was extremely worried about my case. Not only did he get the best outcome possible for my case, he had skilled knowledge to answer all my questions about my nursing license along the way. I would recommend him to all of my closest friends and family. Karen and the entire staff are extremely helpful and I always felt that I was a priority. Thank you Mr. McKinney for helping to keep my future bright! I am so very thankful to you!- Very Satisfied Client
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"Forever Grateful"I want to personally thank Mr. Rob and Ms. Shyanne for everything they have done for me that took me to the resolution of being able to go on with my life. I’m forever blessed to have met them and had them in my life at a very rough time. Thank you.- K.
