Shoplifting Defense Attorney in Memphis

Have you been arrested for theft in the Memphis area? If so, the Claiborne Ferguson Law Firm, P.A. can provide the experience and aggressive defense that you need to avoid a conviction or to reduce your charges to a lesser offense.

Shoplifting is the least of all theft crimes, but it can still affect your future career since employers will be much more hesitant to hire someone with a theft offense on their criminal record, no matter how small. Consult with a Memphis criminal defense attorney from our firm as soon as possible to learn more about your charges and to find out how we can fight in your defense.

Defining Shoplifting in Tennessee

Tennessee Code Annotated § 39.14-105 provides the different grading for theft. Shoplifting, retail theft, and petty theft are generally misdemeanors and are punishable by a fine of up to $2,500. Shoplifting is a misdemeanor as long as the total value of all property stolen is $500 or less.

Shoplifting can escalate to a felony if the value of the property exceeds $500 or if the individual entered the shop with the intention of committing a theft crime inside. Burglary is defined as entering a building and committing a felony, theft, or assault crime inside and is a very serious felony. Our firm can ensure that you receive the smallest sentence possible for your case, or that your charges are dropped altogether.

Penalties for Shoplifting

The penalties that you are facing under charges of shoplifting vary depending on the value of the property that you allegedly stole.

The penalties for theft are as follows:

• $500 or less – Class A misdemeanor; fine of up to $2,500
• At least $500 but less than $1,000 – Class E felony; maximum fine of $3,000; standard 1-2 years in prison
• At least $1,000 but less than $10,000 – Class D felony; maximum fine of $5,000; standard 2-5 years in prison
• At least $10,000 but less than $60,000 – Class C felony; maximum fine of $10,000; standard 3-6 years in prison
• At least $60,000 but less than $250,000 – Class B felony; maximum fine of $25,000; standard 8-12 years in prison
• $250,000 or more – Class A felony; maximum fine of $50,000; standard 15-25 years in prison

Shoplifting Defense Strategies

If you are facing charges of shoplifting in the Memphis area, the Claiborne Ferguson Law Firm, P.A. has what it takes to defend you. We will thoroughly study your charges and arrest to determine whether or not there were adequate grounds to charge you with a theft crime in the first place. We will also work tirelessly to uncover evidence and obtain statements that can strengthen your defense.

Our ultimate goal is to have your charges dropped or your cases dismissed, but even when that is not possible, we will at least fight to reduce your charges from a lesser felony, or from a felony to a misdemeanor. The sooner you retain a lawyer, the better your chances will be of a successful defense.

Contact a Criminal Attorney in Memphis, TN

The Claiborne Ferguson Law Firm, P.A. has represented clients in criminal defense cases for more than 35 years. Being Certified as a Specialist in Criminal Trial Advocacy by the National Board of Trial Advocacy, attorney Ferguson has gone through extensive testing and review and has logged numerous hours in the courtroom.

Our firm is more than qualified to provide the highest-quality defense representation for your case. Speak with a Memphis criminal lawyer from our firm as soon as possible to discuss your options. Our team wants nothing more than to help you avoid an unjust end to your case.

Contact a Memphis criminal attorney today to get started!