Have you been arrested for shoplifting in Lakeland, FL? If you’re convicted, you could face serious penalties, such as heavy fines or even jail time. Shoplifting charges can also mark your record, affecting your future job opportunities and reputation. But you still have time to fight the allegations with help from a qualified lawyer who focuses on criminal defense.
Thomas C. Grajek, Attorney At Law has been defending clients throughout Florida for decades. Our Lakeland shoplifting lawyers have 25 years of experience, and our firm has assisted many people facing a wide range of charges—including theft crimes.
Contact our law offices or call (863) 688-4606 today to schedule a consultation. We’re passionate about protecting the rights of those accused of crimes in the area and will work hard on your case from the start.
How Thomas C. Grajek, Attorney At Law Can Help If You Were Arrested for Shoplifting in Lakeland, Florida
From the moment police take you into custody, they believe you’re guilty. However, prosecutors still have to prove your charges “beyond a reasonable doubt,” which is a high standard. That means a skilled attorney has room to challenge the case against you. The key is choosing the right legal ally.
At Thomas C. Grajek, Attorney At Law, we understand Florida’s court systems, laws, and procedures—and we know how to use that knowledge in your defense. We’re some of the most experienced and well-regarded legal professionals in the region when it comes to criminal matters. We’ll tap into our resources and thorough understanding of local courts to give you the best shot at a positive outcome.
Below are some of the ways our Lakeland criminal defense attorney can help:
- Private Investigation: We’ll see if officers followed proper procedures during your arrest, whether security footage is reliable, and if the store staff acted lawfully.
- Identifying Any Rights Violations: If your constitutional rights were ignored—such as illegal searches—we’ll ask the court to exclude that evidence.
- Locating Proof of Your Innocence: Witness statements, security logs, or receipts might show you never intended to take anything unlawfully.
- Negotiations: We’ll work with the prosecution to see if a plea deal, diversion program, or case dismissal is possible under your circumstances.
- Representing You in Court: If the state won’t drop or reduce your charges, we’re prepared to argue your defense before a judge or jury.
When Lakeland prosecutors see our name on a case, they know we’re serious. We will do everything within the law to protect your future. Contact us in Lakeland, Florida right away to arrange a consultation with a Lakeland theft crimes lawyer.
What Is Shoplifting Under Florida Law?
Under Florida Statutes § 812.015, shoplifting is known more formally as “retail theft.” It covers physically taking merchandise and altering price tags, swapping packaging, or trying to leave a store without paying the full price. Any action preventing a store from receiving proper payment can lead to a shoplifting charge.
Typical examples of shoplifting behaviors might include:
- Hiding store goods in your personal bag
- Switching price tags
- Removing packaging
- Working with an employee to lower the price
In Florida, the prosecutor doesn’t always have to show that you left the store with the item. Attempting or intending to commit theft can sometimes be enough. However, the state must still prove you intended to deprive the store of its property.
Penalties for a Lakeland Shoplifting Conviction
Florida’s penalties for shoplifting vary based on the value of the stolen goods, your criminal history, and any aggravating factors. Below is a closer look at possible punishments:
If you are charged with petit theft:
- Value Under $100: This is considered second-degree petit theft. This could result in up to 60 days in jail and fines of up to $500.
- Value From $100 to Under $750: This is considered first-degree petit theft, punishable by up to a year in jail and fines of up to $1,000.
If you are charged with grand theft:
- Value $750 or More: Elevated to grand theft, a felony offense with more severe consequences. For instance, stealing items worth $750–$20,000 is a third-degree felony, carrying up to 5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
- Value $20,000–$100,000: This is a second-degree felony, possibly yielding up to 15 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine.
- Over $100,000: Could be a first-degree felony, with up to 30 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Additionally, if you have multiple prior theft convictions, the charges might be raised automatically, even if the stolen item’s value is low.
Collateral Consequences
A shoplifting conviction can affect your life in ways beyond what a judge imposes at sentencing. These hidden repercussions (often called “collateral consequences”) may include:
- Trouble Finding a Job: Employers might view theft convictions negatively, especially for positions involving money or valuable goods.
- Housing Problems: Landlords often run background checks; a theft record might raise concerns about reliability.
- Professional Licensing Issues: Some licenses require applicants to disclose criminal convictions. A theft offense could prevent or limit these opportunities.
- Immigration Complications: Non-U.S. citizens might face immigration hurdles if they have a criminal record for shoplifting.
Because these outcomes might stick around long after the legal penalty ends, exploring all defense options that could help avoid a conviction is crucial.
Possible Defenses to a Shoplifting Charge in Lakeland, Florida
While the prosecution must prove every element of shoplifting, you and your attorney can raise defenses to cast doubt. That’s why the “beyond a reasonable doubt” standard offers room to fight back. Some potential defenses include:
- Lack of Intent: Maybe you forgot you were carrying an item or believed you paid. Without the intention to steal, it’s not shoplifting.
- Mistaken Identity: Surveillance footage might be blurry, or a witness may have identified the wrong person.
- Violation of Your Rights: The evidence might be excluded if law enforcement conducted an illegal search or seizure.
- Altered or Missing Evidence: The store’s cameras or receipts might be lost or tampered with, weakening the prosecution’s case.
Your defense strategy depends on the facts of your situation. Hiring an experienced lawyer ensures that all possible defenses are explored.
The Court Process in a Lakeland Shoplifting Case
After an arrest, you might feel lost. Below is a quick glimpse of how your case might move through the court system:
- Arraignment: You’ll appear before a judge and hear the charges. You can enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Discovery: Both sides share evidence. Prosecutors show what they have against you, and your lawyer can challenge or gather additional proof.
- Pre-Trial Negotiations: Your attorney and the prosecutor might discuss a plea agreement, reducing charges if you plead guilty to a lesser offense.
- Motions: Your lawyer could file motions to exclude illegally obtained evidence.
- Trial: If no deal is reached, your lawyer can present your defense to a judge or jury.
- Verdict and Sentencing: If found guilty, the judge decides the sentence. If not guilty, you’re free to go. Some cases are resolved with probation or other alternatives instead of jail time.
Throughout these steps, an experienced attorney will ensure your rights are preserved.
Contact a Lakeland Shoplifting Attorney for Legal Help
Though shoplifting isn’t as severe as violent crimes, a conviction can still cause long-term damage to your record and your daily life. Don’t risk pleading guilty or going it alone without speaking to an attorney first. Thomas C. Grajek, Attorney At Law has over 25 years of experience in the field, providing dedicated criminal defense to individuals throughout Lakeland and beyond.
If you’re looking for help, consider setting up a consultation with our Lakeland shoplifting attorneys. We’ll learn the details of your situation, offer personalized advice, and work on a defense strategy that fits your circumstances.