Trusted criminal defense lawyer
Author: J. Blake Ledbetter, Partner, Conoscienti & Ledbetter
Mr. Ledbetter specializes in civil litigation in metropolitan Atlanta, Georgia, and possesses vast experience in wrongful death lawsuits. Mr. Ledbetter was recognized as a SuperLawyers Rising Star in 2018 and 2019 in the area of Civil Litigation. Published on June 27, 2023.
Speak with experienced criminal defense lawyer today, for free.
We are here to offer our skill and experience in navigating these waters with efficiency and acumen. We handle each case with a deep understanding of the legal process to make sure your rights are protected every step of the way.
In our legal system, shoplifting offenses can range from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on prior criminal history and, particularly, the value of the property involved. We’re not just here to guide you through the courts; we’re here to give you a fighting chance to protect your future.
Our firm upholds the principles of honesty and integrity, and when we take on your case, you can expect to be treated with the utmost respect and dignity. With over 35 years of combined experience in defending a variety of criminal charges, we have honed our ability to strategize effectively for our clients in Decatur and throughout Georgia.
Our team at Conoscienti & Ledbetter, LLC, is equipped to handle the intricacies of shoplifting charges. We do so by listening to your story, evaluating the evidence, and applying our extensive legal knowledge to the specifics of your situation. Our goal is to pursue the best possible outcome with compassion and a commitment to justice, ensuring that every client feels supported and confidently represented.
Understanding Shoplifting Laws
When facing shoplifting charges in Georgia, it’s vital to understand the applicable laws and potential penalties. We’re here to guide you through what those laws entail and how they can affect your future.
Shoplifting Types and Penalties in Georgia
Under Georgia law, theft by shoplifting is codified in OCGA § 16-8-14. Intent is a crucial factor, and the line between a misdemeanor and a felony can often come down to the value of the items taken and prior convictions. Here are some specifics:
- Misdemeanor Shoplifting: Typically involves items valued at $500 or less and can result in fines and/or up to one year in jail.
- Felony Shoplifting: Occurs when items are valued over $500 or the individual has prior shoplifting convictions, potentially leading to more severe fines and prison time of one to ten years.
Other Consequences may include:
- Probation
- Community service
- Liquidated damages payable to the merchant
- A permanent criminal record, which can impact housing opportunities and employment
Expungement and Future Impact
Concerning expungement, it’s important for our clients to understand that in Georgia, an individual can seek to have certain shoplifting charges sealed if they meet specific criteria. This process can significantly reduce the long-term impact on one’s future, such as improving employment prospects. Criteria for record expungement include:
- Successful completion of a diversion program or the terms of the sentence
- A certain number of years has passed since you completed your sentence
- You have not engaged in criminal activity since
- You are eligible for Retroactive First Offender benefits
While not all shoplifting charges can be expunged, our team at Conoscienti & Ledbetter, LLC, applies over 40 years of combined experience to every case to strive for the best possible outcome, including exploring options for early release and record expungement.
Speak with trusted criminal defense lawyer today, for free.
Legal Support and Representation
When faced with shoplifting charges in Decatur, Georgia, securing skillful legal support and representation can significantly impact the outcome of your case. We at Conoscienti & Ledbetter, LLC, leverage over 40 years of combined experience to provide responsive, efficient, and effective defense strategies tailored to the specifics of your situation.
Choosing the Right Attorney
Finding a shoplifting lawyer who understands the complexities of Georgia’s court system is crucial. Our team is well-versed in local court procedures, ensuring that we navigate your case with precision. With our firm’s responsiveness and dedication to integrity, we prioritize your legal rights and aim to defend you vigorously against any criminal charges.
We offer a free consultation to discuss your case specifics and outline our approach, highlighting our commitment to treating every client with the utmost respect and dignity.
Building a Defense Strategy
Developing a robust defense strategy hinges upon analyzing every detail of the evidence presented by the prosecution. Our experience as criminal defense attorneys informs our ability to question the intent behind the alleged shoplifting incident and dissect the strength of the case against you.
Whether we are preparing for jury selection, cross-examinations, or presenting arguments before the judge, our tactical decisions are informed by our comprehensive knowledge of the law and our drive to secure the best possible outcome for you.
In our pursuit to craft an effective defense, we consider all aspects of the legal practice and the potential for both short-term impacts and long-term consequences, such as the avoidance of prison time. Trust us at Conoscienti & Ledbetter, LLC, to provide unparalleled legal representation and counsel that you can rely on. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
Decatur Office
(404) 373-5800
315 W Ponce de Leon Ave. Suite 400 Decatur, GA 30030
