Retail Fraud Felony and Misdemeanor Charges in Novi, Oakland County

If you are searching for superior legal representation for retail fraud charges in Novi, you are in the right place.

Retail fraud, commonly referred to as shoplifting, is a serious offense in Michigan.

A criminal conviction could easily result in financial loss, a ruined reputation, emotional damage, lengthy and costly probation, and jail time. Suppose you are currently facing retail fraud charges and are looking for an experienced, aggressive team of attorneys in Novi, LEWIS & DICKSTEIN. In that case, P.L.L.C is ready to fight for the dismissal of all charges!

Three (3) degrees of Retail Fraud as Outlined by the Michigan Penal Code

In Michigan, the penal code outlines three degrees of retail fraud, which include 1st degree, 2nd degree, and 3rd degree retail fraud charges. Make no mistake – each degree carries with it the possibility of life-altering consequences if there is a conviction. Factors such as the price of the stolen item and the offender’s criminal history are determinative. Unfortunately, some individuals charged with 3rd-degree retail fraud figure that they will get off easy, since the charge is a misdemeanor, only to find that they are still slapped with jail time, probation, and hefty fines by a judge. Worse than jail or probation is the impact of a “fraud” conviction when someone seeks new employment, a raise, government benefits, a loan, or anything else where someone may check a person’s criminal history. Whether you face a retail fraud charge in the 1st or 3rd degree in Novi, you do not want to face your charge without a reputable attorney with a proven track record of success.

What is included in shoplifting?

Being caught walking out of a store with an unpaid item comes to mind for many people when they hear the term “retail fraud.” Retail fraud in Novi includes a situation where the accused misrepresents an item’s price by removing or replacing a price tag, for example. Many young people do not realize various acts fall under the “retail fraud” umbrella. Inexperienced and ill-informed, many young people face retail fraud charges due to ignorance regarding what actions fall under retail fraud in Michigan. It is also prevalent for highly educated adults with no prior record, an excellent reputation, and an excellent job to find themselves on the receiving end of a retail fraud charge. We have handled countless cases like this, and we can help you through the process with dignity and respect and obtain an extraordinary result.

What is at stake with a retail theft conviction?

While hiring a seasoned team of retail fraud attorneys may come at a cost in Novi, you must also consider the high cost of losing your case and facing a conviction. Whether it’s a 1st or 3rd-degree charge, your future employment, financial situation, criminal background, and mental health are at stake. Perhaps you are reasoning that the stolen item’s cost is relatively low or figure that the punitive measures taken against you will be pretty minimal since this is your first offense. For a defendant who is not an American citizen, you could face deportation, inability to re-enter the United States, or difficulty attaining citizenship.

Considering the impact that a retail fraud conviction can have on a person’s future, we encourage you to think twice before hiring a bargain lawyer who is weak, inexperienced, or ineffective. The judges and prosecutors are notoriously harsh in the 52-1 District Court in Novi, and your lawyer must have the reputation, experience, and aggressiveness to protect and defend you. Enlist the help of LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C., an experienced team that has helped thousands of clients over the years avoid unjust suffering as we fight for you in court.

Call us today at (248) 263-6800 for a free consultation or complete a Request for Assistance Form. We will contact you promptly and find a way to help you.