Rhode Island Shoplifting Defense Lawyer

The Law Offices of Michael J. Zarrella

The Need for a Shoplifting Defense lawyer

Shoplifting is the willful taking of goods from a store or business without paying for the goods. Although it may seem like a petty crime, a shoplifting charge can carry significant penalties depending on the circumstances surrounding the case. The charge of shoplifting may be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the person's criminal record and the value of the goods taken. Often a plea to shoplifting and may result in probation and/or a fine and even incarceration if a client has any prior shoplifting convictions. If you or a loved one have been charged with shoplifting, it's important to retain an accomplished attorney to defend you. A shoplifting conviction can leave a permanent mark on your criminal record, which may lead to problems later in life such as problems with employment opportunities. The Law Offices of Michael J. Zarrella is committed to providing the highest quality legal representation. Attorney Zarrella has been helping people with their shoplifting cases for 20 years.

Criminal Defense Attorney Michael J. Zarrella

Whether it is your first charge or if you have a criminal record, DO NOT go to court without an experienced criminal defense lawyer. If you do not have a record, although jail is unlikely, it is impontant to get your case dismissed so that you do not start buliding a criminal record. The state will often take advantage of defendants who go into court alone or have an attoney that is not up to the challenge. That is why you need a criminal defense lawyer such as Michael J. Zarrella. He has a long history of winning cases for his clients. He will fight the prosecution, and get you the most favorable result possible. He will sit down with you, inform you of the strength and weakness of your case. Attorney Zarrella prides himself on his many trial victories and on securing favorable dispositions for his clients.

Penalties for Shoflifting in Rhode Island

Shoplifting First Offense- is a misdemeanor, subject to a fine of not less than $50.00 or two times the full retail value of the merchandise, whichever is greater, but the fine cannot exceed $500, up to one year in at ACI

Shoplifting Prior Convictions Value $100 or less-is a misdemeanor, subject to a fine of not less than $50.00 or two times the full retail value of the merchandise, whichever is greater, but fine cannot exceed $500, up to one year in at ACI

Shoplifting Prior Convictions Offense Value Over $100-is a felony, subject to a fine of not more than five thousand dollars ($5,000), up to 5 years at ACI, or both.

It is important to note, that a prior shoplifting charge that is not a conviction would not make a second offense a felony. A defendan who had plead to a prior charge and received a filling or straight probation without a fine, would not be subject to the enhancement to a felony.

Shoplifting – Use of implements in concealment. – is a felony and subject to a fine of $500 to not more than than five $5,000, 5 years at ACI, or both.

Aggressive Criminal Defense.

There are many defenses to shoplifting in criminal cases. Always remember that you need to prove nothing in a criminal case, the burden is always on the state to prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt. The following defenses may be applied to a shoplifting charge:

  • Accident, no intent
  • Client never went passed the point of purchase
  • Lack of evidence
  • Improper detention
  • Inadmissable confession

The Law Office of Michael J. Zarrella has enormous trial experience, thoughout Rhode Island defending people accused of shoplifting. Attorney Zarrella has had numerous shoplifting cases dismissed as well as other misdemeanor charges. Don’t gamble on the uncertainty of a less quilifed lawyer. You need a lawyer whose practice constrates on criminal defense. Contact the Law Office of Michael J. Zarrella now.