How to Beat a Shoplifting Charge in Illinois

When you’re accused of retail theft, preparing a defense can be tough. You may have been accused before you left the store, and now you’re in big trouble. Because of that, you need to act as soon as possible to deal with your case. But how do you beat a shoplifting charge in Illinois? 

If you’ve been accused of retail theft, you have a few options to fight back, avoid the charges, and protect your future. Talk to your shoplifting lawyer in Illinois about avoiding the charges. They can help you determine your best defense and represent you at each step of the process. 

Lack of Intent

Sometimes, accidents happen. You may have left an item in your cart without realizing it. You may have had something in your hand you forgot to pay for. You may have not intended to take the item with you. 

Proving a lack of intent to steal something may be a key part of your defense. Your Illinois defense lawyer could focus on how you planned to buy the thing and left with it on accident, for example. That way, you can avoid the penalties for shoplifting like fines and jail time. 

Lack of Evidence 

In some cases, you may have been accused of shoplifting by a store employee or someone who thought you looked suspicious. But that doesn’t mean they have foolproof evidence. In some cases, they may not have the evidence needed to prove you were guilty of shoplifting. 

This is especially true if you were never spotted on camera. If they don’t have evidence of you trying to commit retail theft, they may not have the evidence needed to convict you. That gives you and your retail theft lawyer in Illinois a better chance to avoid penalties. 

Reducing the Penalties 

Many stores, especially larger retail stores, have cameras everywhere to prevent shoplifting. Often, that means these companies have significant evidence against you. If they do, you may not have the defense needed to dispute that evidence and get all charges against you dropped. That doesn’t mean you have to accept the penalties, either. 

You can still work out a plea bargain or probation option for your case. For example, if this is your first offense, you may be offered probation rather than jail time. The conviction will still be on your record, but you can avoid jail time and protect your family, housing situation, and even your job. 

Defend Your Case with an Illinois Shoplifting Lawyer

When you’re accused of shoplifting, it can affect your future for years to come. You may have trouble getting jobs, you may be banned from stores, and the financial burden alone can greatly impact your future. That’s why you may need a lawyer from Chicago Trusted Attorneys™. Your lawyer can help you fight back when you’re accused of shoplifting. To get in touch with a lawyer, call 312-519-3171 or complete the following online contact form.