Garden City Shoplifting & Retail Fraud Defense Attorney

Shoplifting—also known as retail fraud—is one of the most common theft-related offenses in Michigan, but that doesn’t mean it’s minor. A conviction can carry serious legal consequences and long-lasting effects on your record, employment opportunities, and reputation. At the Law Office of Julian J. Poota, PLLC, we provide experienced, nonjudgmental defense for individuals facing shoplifting and retail fraud charges in Garden City and throughout Wayne County.

Types of Retail Fraud Charges in Garden City, MI

Michigan law classifies retail fraud into three degrees, depending on the value of the stolen property and prior convictions:

• Retail Fraud – First Degree (Felony)
  Theft of merchandise worth $1,000 or more, or $200–$1,000 with a prior conviction
  ➤ Penalty: Up to 5 years in prison and/or $10,000 fine
• Retail Fraud – Second Degree (Misdemeanor)
  Theft of merchandise worth $200 to $999, with no prior
  ➤ Penalty: Up to 1 year in jail and/or $2,000 fine
• Retail Fraud – Third Degree (Misdemeanor)
  Theft of merchandise worth under $200
  ➤ Penalty: Up to 93 days in jail and/or $500 fine

You can also be charged for activities like price tag switching, false returns, or attempting to conceal merchandise—even if you didn’t leave the store.

Why You Need a Defense Attorney for Shoplifting Charges

Retail fraud may seem like a small mistake, but a conviction—especially a felony—can carry serious long-term consequences, including:

• A permanent criminal record
• Loss of employment opportunities, especially in retail or finance
• Immigration consequences for non-citizens
• Civil demand letters from the store or retail company

Even first-time offenders can face jail time or harsh probation conditions. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help protect your record and fight for reduced or dismissed charges.

How We Defend Retail Fraud Cases in Garden City

At the Law Office of Julian J. Poota, PLLC, we examine every detail of your case and tailor a defense strategy based on the facts and your goals. We may be able to:

• Challenge the sufficiency or reliability of evidence (e.g., surveillance footage, witness statements)
• Argue mistaken identity or lack of intent
• Negotiate for a reduced charge, such as a civil infraction or trespass
• Pursue diversion programs or delayed sentences to avoid a conviction altogether
• Fight for dismissal based on constitutional violations or weak evidence

Our goal is always to protect your record and minimize the impact on your life.

Court Handling Retail Fraud Charges in Garden City

Retail fraud charges in Garden City are typically heard at:

21st District Court – Garden City
6000 Middlebelt Rd
Garden City, MI 48135
Phone: (734) 793-1680
Website: https://www.gardencitymi.org/417/

Felony-level cases may be elevated to the Wayne County Circuit Court.

Over 20 Years of Criminal Defense Experience

Attorney Julian J. Poota has successfully represented hundreds of clients charged with theft-related crimes across Michigan. With a reputation for skilled negotiation and trial advocacy, our firm is ready to help you resolve your case with discretion and professionalism.

🌟 See what our clients say about working with us: Read our Google Reviews »

Need Help with a Different Case?

Explore our full list of criminal defense services on the Garden City Criminal Defense Attorney page.
You can also learn more about theft and shoplifting defense by visiting our Wayne County Retail Fraud Attorney page.

Get Help Today – Contact Us for a Free Consultation

If you’ve been accused of shoplifting in Garden City, time is critical. The sooner you get legal representation, the better your chances of protecting your rights and record.

📞 Call us at (248) 356-8900
📨 Or contact us online at: https://www.pootalaw.com/contact-us/