Over 20 Years of Achieving Positive Results
Eastpointe Theft Lawyer – Retail Fraud, Shoplifting & Larceny
If you are facing theft charges in Eastpointe, it is crucial to have an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side. Theft-related offenses, including retail fraud, shoplifting, and larceny, are treated seriously by law enforcement and the courts. A conviction can result in significant fines, jail time, and a permanent criminal record that could affect your future opportunities.
At The Law Office of Julian J. Poota, PLLC, we provide aggressive defense for individuals facing theft charges in Eastpointe and throughout Macomb County. With over 20 years of experience, we work diligently to fight these charges and seek the best possible outcome for our clients.
Types of Theft Charges We Defend Against
We handle a variety of theft charges, including:
- Retail Fraud: Also known as shoplifting, this involves stealing goods from a retail store with the intent to permanently deprive the store of them.
- Shoplifting: The act of stealing merchandise from a store without paying for it.
- Larceny: A general theft offense that involves unlawfully taking someone’s property with the intent to steal it.
- Larceny by Conversion: When someone unlawfully takes property that was entrusted to them, such as renting a vehicle and failing to return it.
- Larceny from a Person: Stealing property directly from an individual, such as in cases of pickpocketing or robbery.
- Grand Larceny: This is a more serious form of theft that involves property valued above a certain threshold (typically $1,000 or more).
- Petty Larceny: Theft of property valued below the threshold for grand larceny.
- Receiving Stolen Property: Possessing property that you know has been stolen.
- Theft of Services: Using services (like utilities, cable TV, etc.) without paying for them.
No matter the specific charge, we have the knowledge and experience to mount a solid defense.
Penalties for Theft Convictions
The penalties for theft-related crimes can vary depending on the severity of the charge and the value of the stolen property. Potential consequences include:
- Retail Fraud (Shoplifting):
- For property valued under $200, the charge is typically a misdemeanor punishable by up to 93 days in jail and/or fines up to $500.
- For property valued over $200, the charge can be a felony with penalties of up to 5 years in prison and/or fines up to $10,000.
- Larceny (Grand or Petty):
- Grand Larceny (property over $1,000): A felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison and significant fines.
- Petty Larceny (property under $1,000): A misdemeanor with penalties of up to 93 days in jail and/or fines up to $500.
- Receiving Stolen Property:
- Possessing stolen property is a felony that can carry penalties of up to 10 years in prison, depending on the value of the property.
- Larceny from a Person:
- A felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $15,000.
- Theft of Services:
- This offense is typically a misdemeanor but can lead to fines and/or jail time depending on the circumstances.
The penalties increase dramatically if you have prior convictions, especially for theft-related crimes. Additionally, a theft conviction can have long-term consequences, including loss of employment opportunities, the ability to own firearms, and other restrictions.
Why You Need a Theft Defense Attorney
Being charged with theft can have serious consequences that can affect your entire life. Here’s why you need an experienced attorney:
- Protect your rights: A skilled defense lawyer ensures that your rights are protected throughout the process, from arrest through trial.
- Challenge the evidence: We will examine all the evidence in your case, including surveillance footage, witness testimony, and physical evidence, to challenge its accuracy and reliability.
- Negotiate plea deals: In many cases, we can negotiate with the prosecution to reduce charges, avoid jail time, or have the case dismissed.
- Defend against wrongful accusations: Many theft charges are based on misunderstandings or false accusations. We work hard to prove your innocence if you have been wrongly accused.
- Fight for alternative sentencing: In cases where a conviction is unavoidable, we may be able to secure alternatives to prison time, such as probation or restitution.
How We Fight Theft Charges in Eastpointe
At The Law Office of Julian J. Poota, we use a comprehensive approach to defend our clients against theft charges. Our defense strategy includes:
- Investigating the facts: We conduct a thorough investigation of the circumstances surrounding the theft accusation to uncover any flaws in the case.
- Challenging the evidence: Whether it’s questioning the credibility of witnesses or challenging surveillance footage, we examine all evidence to determine if it can be used against you in court.
- Negotiate with prosecutors: In some cases, we can negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduced sentence or plea bargain to minimize the consequences of a conviction.
- Presenting a strong defense at trial: If the case goes to trial, we provide a vigorous defense, presenting arguments and evidence to refute the prosecution’s case.
We understand the impact that theft charges can have on your life, and we are committed to fighting for the best possible outcome in every case.
Courts Handling Theft Cases in Eastpointe
38th District Court – Eastpointe
- Address: 15975 E. 9 Mile Rd, Eastpointe, MI 48021
- Phone: (586) 445-5100
- Visit Website
Macomb County Circuit Court
- Address: 40 N. Main St, Mount Clemens, MI 48043
- Phone: (586) 469-5315
- Visit Website
Contact an Eastpointe Theft Defense Lawyer Today
If you’re facing theft charges in Eastpointe, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Julian J. Poota today for a free consultation to discuss your case and the best way to fight the charges.
📞 Call us now: (888) 399-7979
📩 Or contact us online
We represent clients in Eastpointe and throughout Macomb County.