Shoplifting Attorney in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Shoplifting is defined as the taking of an item without paying for it or intentionally paying less for an item than the posted price. Shop-lifting can include such acts as carrying, hiding, concealing, or manipulating merchandise with the intent of taking it or paying less for it. If you have been arrested and charged with shoplifting in Fort Lauderdale, you need an attorney immediately. Shop-lifting charges can bring serious consequences and it takes a skilled lawyer to effectively defend against them. If you are accused of shoplifting an item valued at less than $300.00, you will be charged with a misdemeanor punishable by up to a year in the county jail. However, if you are accused of shoplifting an item or items the value of which is at least $300.00 and up to $20,000.00, you will be charged with a third degree felony punishable by as much as five years in state prison.

I have handled my fair share of shoplifting cases and am very familiar with what can be done to reduce the damage these charges can have on your life. If you or someone you know has been charged with shoplifting, call me so I can advise you. If you have no prior criminal history, I can help you apply for and be accepted to the state’s pre-trial intervention program, the completion of which will allow you the opportunity to have your record expunged. If, on the other hand, you have a prior criminal record or you want to fight your shoplifting charge, I will investigate the circumstances surrounding your arrest and help you mount a strong defense.

Under Florida law, if a store’s security personnel believe you have attempted to shop-lift or tamper with an inventory device, they have the right to stop and detain you until law enforcement arrives. The security personnel can often produce video surveillance as evidence against you and will most certainly be called to testify against you. You’ll need an experienced and skilled South Florida criminal lawyer to protect you. If you have found yourself in a situation where you are facing misdemeanor or felony shoplifting charges, call me, Lloyd Golburgh, for a free consultation. Let my experience in defending clients facing shoplifting charges work for you.