Have You Been Charged with Shoplifting?

Have You Been Charged with Shoplifting?

Maybe you took something as a dare, or because you really needed it, or perhaps it was an accident or a misunderstanding.

Regardless of the reason, the store caught you and has accused you of shoplifting. This is not just an embarrassing situation; it could affect your future in ways you cannot imagine.

Even if this is your first offense, you could face substantial fines and even prison time, depending on the value of the shoplifted item or items. You will also have a criminal record that will follow you for the rest of your life. And, if you are not an American citizen, you could even be deported.

But right now, you are only charged. You have yet to be convicted, and as such, you have options, and can minimise the effect that this charge will have on your future.

Seek Legal Support for Your Shoplifting Charge

At The Law Offices of Elliot Savitz & Scott Bradley, we have represented hundreds of clients accused of shoplifting and we have been able to get many of the charges dismissed prior to arraignment, so that they never appear on your record. Most often, the charges can be dismissed at a Clerk’s Hearing (Show Cause), or at other times by the District Attorney or police prosecutor in front of a judge.

Having the right attorney by your side, even before your arraignment, can help you preserve your reputation and guarantee you the best result possible.

Massachusetts Penalties for Shoplifting

Charges vary under Massachusetts law depending on the value of the goods and the number of prior offenses. For shoplifting items valued at less than $100, the penalties are:

  • Up to a $250 fine for a first offense;
  • Up to a $500 fine for a second offense;
  • Imprisonment of up to 2 years for a third offense.

For items valued over $100, the penalties are:

  • Up to a $1000 fine and 2 ½ years in prison for a first offense;
  • Second and third offenses can vary but are much more serious.
  • In addition, the merchant can seek an additional $500 above the value of the shoplifted item.

Whether it was a big misunderstanding, or just a short-sighted mistake, contact The Law Offices of Elliot Savitz & Scott Bradley at, (781) 974-3429 for a FREE, NO OBLIGATION, CONSULTATION.

TESTIMONIALS

“Dear Elliot, Just a short note filled with heartfelt thanks for your help and support in my defense during my court appearance. I can’t begin to express how grateful I am knowing this foolish incident and its aftermath is finally over. Thank again, so very much.”
“I’m sitting here thinking about what a remarkable victory you pulled off. I just had to let you know that it was an outstanding victory. Well done.”
“We were absolutely astonished and very grateful for how Elliot handled our son’s case and would highly recommend him to anyone who is in need of legal council!”
“I wanted to thank you again. I’m at the end of my probation period. I could not have done it without you. You were such a great support. I just want to let you know I appreciated everything you did.”
“Dear Elliot, People are not immune to the ‘fortune’ in their life. The bright side is that someone is out there to save them. You are the person saving my fate. You represent ‘integrity and justice.’ You are the best lawyer on earth.”
“I really wanted to thank you so much. I cannot thank you enough. You were always there to fulfill whatever was required by the court.”
“Dear Mr Savitz, Thank you so much for all your hard work, as well as your persistence on my case. I really appreciate your sensitivity in dealing with me on this matter. I feel good about the outcome of my case and am grateful to you for resolving it quickly.”
“Thank you for representing me in court. Everything worked out for the better. I have been attending all my AA meetings, consulting at Catholic Charities and meeting with my probation officer. I haven’t had a drink since the day I went to court and everything is great at home.”
“I cannot begin to tell you how much I’ve appreciated your most sincere guidance & support. This has been one of the most difficult years we’ve been through with our son. We could not have hoped for a more positive outcome.”

CONTACT US

CRIMINAL CHARGES

ADDITIONAL LEGAL SERVICES

THERE IS NO CHARGE FOR YOUR INITIAL CONSULTATION.
Call (781) 974-3429 & Take the 1st Step to Developing a Winning Strategy.

Criminal Defense Attorney

If you are facing criminal charges, call The Law Offices of Elliot Savitz & Scott Bradley, at (781) 974-3429.

We are available 24/7 and can assess your criminal charges over the phone to quickly determine your best course of action. Then, our law office will represent you in court as we fight together against your charges.

ATTORNEY CLIENT PRIVILEGE protects your conversation, so you can be open and honest with Attorneys Savitz & Bradley whatever the charge or charges. We are genuinely committed to protecting your rights and will always act in your best interest.