Naperville Retail Theft Attorney

Skilled Attorneys for Theft in DuPage County

Theft is an incredibly common offense committed. Think of how often you hear about packages being stolen by "porch pirates." While a majority of thefts go unsolved and unpunished, other individuals are not so lucky. Even less lucky individuals may be charged with a theft they are not responsible for. Theft can be charged as a felony or as a misdemeanor depending on factors like the value of the property allegedly stolen and whether you have prior theft offenses. This offense can be committed against an individual, organization, business, or retail store. Retail theft is a common variation of theft. The economy is difficult for many right now, prompting some people to shoplift things they need but cannot pay for. If you have been charged with any type of theft, it is important to find good legal representation so that you can fight back.

Appelman Law LLC is experienced in defending people who are facing theft charges in Illinois. Our dedicated team of criminal defense attorneys will strive to reduce the level of the offense or prevent a conviction wherever possible. We will begin your representation by carefully reviewing any relevant evidence, security camera footage, or other allegations so that we can identify the defense strategy most likely to benefit you. We will always act strictly in your best interest.

Legal Help With Theft Charges in Illinois

First, knowing whether you are facing a felony or a misdemeanor is important. Generally, theft of property valued at $500 or less is a Class A misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to a year in jail. However, an attorney can often help people charged with misdemeanor theft avoid substantial jail time even if conviction is inevitable.

Theft of property valued at more than $500 is typically a felony. You may also be charged with felony theft for stealing any property from a school, place of worship, or the government.

Here is where the math can be tricky - when determining the seriousness of a theft charge, the prosecution can consider the total value of all property stolen in a single course of action over the past year, even if the acts were intermittent. For example, if a person has been periodically stealing packages from various neighbors for several months, the state can add up the total value of all packages stolen. This makes it very likely that habitual thieves will face felony charges.

Retail Theft Lawyers Serving Naperville

The price of food and goods has increased greatly, while wages have largely stagnated. This means that many people simply cannot afford the things they need. Some people may resort to shoplifting in order to meet their basic needs. Retail theft has become a more common charge.

Actions like switching a price tag and hiding a product inside the packaging of another product so it is not noticed and scanned at the register are considered shoplifting, as the goal is to receive an item for free or less than it costs.

Most incidences of simple shoplifting result in misdemeanor charges. If the value of the products taken equal $300 or less, the theft will likely be charged as a misdemeanor. Minor retail theft is a common juvenile crime. Retail theft over $300 is likely to be charged as a felony, which can result in substantial prison time if the case is not handled well by a skilled lawyer.

Contact a Naperville Theft Attorney

Appelman Law LLC is highly experienced in defending people who have been accused of theft or retail theft. We will do all we can to raise the strongest possible legal defense on your behalf. Available 24/7, contact our office at 630-717-7801 for a complimentary initial consultation.