Skip to Content
Experienced Nashville Defense Firm
Top
Shoplifting A Team Who Will Tenaciously Defend You Every Step of the Way

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.
Continue Reading Read Less

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.

    "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
    "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
    "Perfect Results"
    I am grateful for this level of professionalism and you would be foolish not to have her represent you.
    - Kyle
    "Excellent Defense"
    Excellent work great attorney definitely worth every star & every Pennie!!!!!
    - Trent Johnson
    ""Expert care, unwavering support, and a team that truly fights for you—Savannah and her staff go above and beyond!""
    I cannot speak highly enough of Savannah and her incredible team. From the very start, she demonstrated expert care, attentiveness, and a true dedication to my case. Her professionalism and knowledge made the entire process smooth, and she took the time to ensure I understood every step along the way. What truly sets Savannah apart is her compassion and commitment. She and her staff were always responsive, thorough, and supportive, making me feel confident that my case was in the best hands. Their attention to detail and ability to navigate complex situations with ease made all the difference. I highly recommend Savannah and her team to anyone in need of expert legal representation. They not only fight for you but genuinely care about your well-being. Thank you for everything!
    - Josh
    "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
    "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
    "Best Case Scenario"
    If you’re looking for a firm who knows how to handle a DUI/DWI case, give Shyanne a call.
    - Satisfied Client
  • "AV Preeminent" by Martindale Hubble
  • Super Lawyers
  • The Best Lawyers In America
  • Best 101 Lawyers in Tennessee by Nashville Business Journal
  • Nashville's Top Lawyers by The Tennessean
  • Nashville Bar Association
  • Nashville Bar Foundation
  • Tennessee Bar Association

Get In Touch Today

Schedule Your Free Strategy Session
  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please enter your county.
  • Please enter your response.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.
  • By submitting, you agree to receive text messages from May McKinney at the number provided, including those related to your inquiry, follow-ups, and review requests, via automated technology. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Msg & data rates may apply. Msg frequency may vary. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for assistance. Acceptable Use Policy

Why Choose May McKinney?

A Firm Committed to You, Your Case & Your Future
  • Nearly 80 Years of Combined Experience
    Our accomplished attorneys bring almost eight decades of combined criminal defense experience.
  • Educated In Our Field
    Our team believes in ongoing training in the criminal defense field. Our attorneys are educated in the latest forensic science technology and Attorney Riddle is Trauma Certified.
  • A Team Approach
    Our attorneys work each case as a unit, which is extremely beneficial to our clients. No matter the case size, it's integral to get the experience and knowledge of a team.
  • An Aggressive Defense
    When you choose May McKinney, you are choosing a team that will fight tooth and nail for your rights, your freedom, and your future.