Waukegan Shoplifting Defense Lawyer

Legal Representation for Shoplifting Charges in Waukegan, Illinois

Facing a shoplifting charge in Waukegan can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Illinois law treats theft-related offenses seriously, and a conviction can lead to criminal penalties, fines, and a permanent record that affects future employment opportunities. If you have been accused of shoplifting in Waukegan, you need an experienced criminal defense lawyer to protect your rights and build a strong defense against the charges.

Under 720 ILCS 5/16-25, shoplifting is legally defined as retail theft, which includes actions such as:

• Taking merchandise from a store without paying
• Altering or switching price tags to pay less for an item
• Removing or tampering with security tags
• Concealing items with the intent to steal
• Using a device or tool to defeat anti-theft security measures

Even if the stolen property is of low value, a shoplifting conviction can have long-lasting consequences. Working with a skilled defense attorney is crucial to minimizing these risks and exploring options for case dismissal or reduced penalties.

Understanding Shoplifting Laws in Illinois

Illinois classifies shoplifting offenses based on the value of the stolen merchandise and whether the defendant has prior theft convictions. Charges can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on the circumstances:

• Misdemeanor Retail Theft (Class A Misdemeanor): If the stolen merchandise is under $300, the offense is punishable by up to one year in jail and fines of up to $2,500.
• Felony Retail Theft (Class 4 Felony): If the value of stolen goods exceeds $300, or if the theft involves the use of an emergency exit, the offense is elevated to a felony, carrying potential penalties of one to three years in prisonand higher fines.
• Repeat Offenses: Defendants with prior shoplifting convictions may face enhanced penalties, even if the stolen merchandise is of relatively low value.

Shoplifting can also result in civil penalties, as Illinois law allows retailers to sue shoplifters for damages, often seeking the value of the stolen items plus additional financial penalties.

How a Waukegan Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Help

If you are accused of shoplifting, having an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side can make all the difference. A defense lawyer can:

• Analyze the evidence to determine if your rights were violated during the arrest or investigation.
• Challenge security footage, witness testimony, and other prosecution evidence.
• Argue for dismissal if there is insufficient proof of intent to steal.
• Negotiate reduced charges or participation in a diversion program to avoid a criminal record.

Defendants often face aggressive prosecution, especially if they have prior offenses. However, a strong legal defense can challenge weak evidence and highlight alternative explanations for alleged shoplifting behavior.

Common Defenses Against Shoplifting Charges

Some potential defenses against shoplifting allegations include:

• Lack of Intent: The prosecution must prove you intended to steal. If you accidentally left a store with unpaid merchandise, this could be a defense.
• Mistaken Identity: Security footage or witness testimony may be unreliable, leading to false accusations.
• Unlawful Search and Seizure: If store security or law enforcement violated your rights during the stop or arrest, evidence may be inadmissible in court.

Contact a Waukegan Shoplifting Defense Lawyer Today

A shoplifting conviction can lead to serious consequences, including jail time, fines, and a permanent record that affects employment opportunities. At The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg, we aggressively defend clients against retail theft and shoplifting charges in Waukegan, Lake County, Cook County, DuPage County, and Will County, Illinois.

Call The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg for Shoplifting Defense in Cook County

If you or a loved one has been charged with a crime in Waukegan, Illinois, do not wait to seek legal representation. The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg provides aggressive and knowledgeable defense representation for individuals facing all types of criminal charges.

A criminal conviction in Waukegan can have long-term consequences that extend beyond the courtroom. The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg provides aggressive and knowledgeable legal representation for individuals facing criminal charges. Our team is committed to protecting our clients’ rights and minimizing the impact of a criminal charge on their lives.

If you are facing criminal charges in Waukegan or anywhere in Chicago, the right legal representation can make all the difference. The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg provides aggressive legal representation for those accused of a crime in Waukegan and throughout Chicago. We offer free consultations 24/7 to discuss your case and legal options. Contact us today at (312) 560-7100 or toll-free at (800) 803-1442 for dedicated criminal defense in DuPage County, Cook County, Will County, Lake County, and the greater Chicago area.