Lenawee County Retail Theft Lawyer

Defending Clients Accused of Shoplifting and Retail Fraud

Being charged with retail theft—also known as shoplifting or retail fraud—may seem minor, but a conviction can follow you for life. Whether it’s a misunderstanding, a momentary lapse in judgment, or a false accusation, these charges can carry jail time, fines, and a damaging criminal record that affects employment and reputation.

At The Law Office of Julian J. Poota, PLLC, we bring over 20 years of criminal defense experience to every case. We defend clients throughout Lenawee County against retail theft charges and fight for the best possible resolution, including dismissals, reductions, and diversionary programs.

Types of Retail Theft Charges in Lenawee County

Retail theft in Michigan is typically charged under Retail Fraud laws and varies in severity depending on the value of the property and whether you have prior convictions:

• Retail Fraud – 1st Degree: Theft of items valued over $1,000 or with prior convictions; felony charge
• Retail Fraud – 2nd Degree: Theft between $200–$1,000 or prior 3rd degree conviction; misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year in jail
• Retail Fraud – 3rd Degree: Theft under $200; 93-day misdemeanor
• Organized Retail Crime: Felony offense involving theft for resale or coordination among multiple individuals

Other related offenses include:

• Price tag switching
• False returns or refund fraud
• Concealment without leaving the store
• Using devices to defeat theft detection equipment

Consequences of a Retail Theft Conviction

Even a misdemeanor can carry long-term consequences:

• Jail or probation
• Steep fines and restitution
• Criminal record that may show up in background checks
• Loss of employment or inability to secure jobs, housing, or loans
• Immigration consequences for non-citizens

You don’t have to plead guilty. A skilled attorney can often negotiate alternatives such as diversion programs, community service, or dismissal through delayed sentencing.

How We Defend Retail Theft Charges

Our firm takes every theft case seriously. We will:

• Analyze store surveillance footage and incident reports
• Question the legality of any search or detention by store security
• Challenge the intent element – theft must be intentional
• Negotiate for pretrial diversion if eligible
• Advocate for reduced charges or dismissal where appropriate

Early legal intervention often leads to better outcomes.

Where Retail Theft Cases Are Handled in Lenawee County

Most retail theft cases are heard in the following local courts:

Lenawee County District Court
425 N. Main St., Adrian, MI 49221
Phone: (517) 264-4600
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Lenawee County Circuit Court
425 N. Main St., Adrian, MI 49221
Phone: (517) 264-4569
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Why Choose Julian J. Poota, PLLC for Retail Theft Defense?

• Over 20 years of experience defending theft and property crime cases
• Personalized strategies to pursue case dismissals or alternative resolutions
• A compassionate, judgment-free approach to every client’s situation

We believe one mistake should not define your future.

See What Our Clients Say

We’ve helped countless individuals move past theft accusations with minimal damage to their lives. Read our Google Reviews to hear from real clients who trusted us with their future.

Contact a Lenawee County Shoplifting Lawyer Today

Don’t let a retail theft charge ruin your reputation or record. Call today for a confidential consultation.

📞 (248) 356-8900
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