Shoplifting

Metro-Atlanta, Georgia Shoplifting Attorney

Shoplifting is the theft of merchandise for sale in a shop by a patron. It is one of the most common crimes in the state court system.

In Georgia, the threshold dollar amount between a felony shoplifting charge and a misdemeanor shoplifting charge is $300 (for other thefts, the threshold amount is $500).  So, if the value of merchandise stolen is under $300, the individual will be charged with a misdemeanor, and is usually eligible for pre-trial diversion and expungement of the charge.

Oftentimes, if the store from which the shoplifting charge originated is a conglomerate, such as Target, Wal-Mart, Macy's, J.C. Penney's, etc., the individual will receive a letter from corporate headquarters stating that if a nominal fee (usually around $250) is paid by the individual, the store will not pursue a civil lawsuit against that person.  However, under the laws of Georgia, this is an empty threat because the merchandise is typically recovered by the store when the individual is arrested and the criminal punishment usually includes a fine.  Thus, the store has no cause of action, and, typically, the letter should be disregarded if it is received.

Whether you are charged with misdemeanor shoplifting or felony shoplifting, the attorneys at The Federal Law Group will use their experience to fight for a dismissal and expungement from your record.  Call us today for your free consultation.