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.
-
"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.
-
"Forever Grateful"My family will always be grateful to you.- Satisfied Client
-
""Do yourself a favor, make Rob your flavor.""I was visiting friends in Nashville and sightseeing around the Titan stadium when about 8 officers drew their weapons on me from a good 100+ feet away, demanding that I freeze and put my hands in the air. My first response was to pull out my knife while i tried to gain focus on who and why this was happening. Is this a joke? Am i being robbed possibly? That was the thoughts racing through my mind. Apparently, someone had called and said someone with a backpack threatened to blow up the stadium, WOW! I understand these officers were doing their job but after they searched me and found I was innocent they still charged me with two counts of aggravated assault on a police officer and a few others for good measure. My lawyer Rob Mckinney knew i was being honest and meant no one harm, but I was really scared that it may turn out very differently due to the circumstances. He not only got my charges dismissed but my record expunged as well. I'm forever grateful and would recommend this legal team for anyone in need of a most stellar lawyer. Thanks again Rob and the rest of the team.- Eric A
-
"You Made a Difficult Situation Endurable"
Thank you so very much for all you have done and are still doing. Thank you for being such a great attorney in our time of need. You made a difficult situation endurable.
- L.M. -
"It's a Comfort to Have You On My Side"
I just wanted to say thank you for everything you have been doing for me. It's comforting to know I've got you on my side. You're the BEST!!
P.S. — I really can't thank you enough.
- R. -
"Complete Confidence"Little words cannot express the gratitude we have for you! From the very first day we walked into your office, we had complete confidence in you and your staff.- Jack & Jessi
-
"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
-
"Truly Grateful"There are precious times in our lives when we are blessed with people who make a difference.- Nathan
