Shoplifting Lawyer in Harrisburg, PA
Arrested for Shoplifting in Harrisburg? Contact Defense Lawyer David M. Hoover Today
At The Hoover Firm, LLC, our Harrisburg shoplifting defense lawyer is a knowledgeable, skilled, and experienced advocate for clients. A shoplifting offense is a serious matter in Pennsylvania. It could even rise to the level of a felony. If you or your loved one were arrested for shoplifting, we are here as a legal resource. Contact us at our Harrisburg law office today for a fully confidential consultation with a top-rated Pennsylvania criminal defense attorney.
An Overview of Shoplifting Charges in Pennsylvania
Arrested for shoplifting in Harrisburg? It is crucial that you understand how these crimes are handled under Pennsylvania law. Shoplifting is legally defined as retail theft under 18 Pa.C.S. § 3929. It occurs when a person unlawfully takes, conceals, alters, or under-rings merchandise with the intent to deprive a merchant of its full retail value. Pennsylvania prosecutors do not need to prove that the defendant physically left the store. To be clear, this means that concealing items on one’s person or tampering with price tags could be sufficient evidence of intent to steal.
Understanding the Classification of Shoplifting Charges
The severity of a shoplifting charge in Pennsylvania depends on both the value of the merchandise and the offender’s prior record. Here are some key points to know about the classification:
- For a first offense involving property valued under $150, retail theft is a summary offense. It is punishable by a fine and up to 90 days in jail.
- A second offense is a misdemeanor of the second degree. While prison time is not guaranteed for a second offense, a conviction can carry up to two years in prison.
- A third or subsequent offense, or theft involving $1,000 or more, is a felony of the third degree. Felony shoplifting is punishable by up to seven years in prison.
Of course, a shoplifting charge is not a conviction. You are assumed innocent until proven. Defendants in Pennsylvania may challenge shoplifting charges by arguing lack of intent, mistaken identity, or constitutional violations such as unlawful search and seizure.
David M. Hoover is a Top Harrisburg Shoplifting Defense Attorney
Arrested for shoplifting in Harrisburg or elsewhere in Pennsylvania? It is normal to feel stressed out or even overwhelmed. A proactive approach is the right approach. Our founder, David M. Hoover, is a criminal defense advocate who puts clients first. When you reach out to our Harrisburg law office, you will have an opportunity to consult with a Pennsylvania shoplifting defense lawyer who can:
- Hear your story and answer your legal questions;
- Investigate the shoplifting charges, gathering relevant evidence;
- Represent you in any negotiations with prosecutors; and
- Develop a personalized shoplifting defense strategy.
Call Our Harrisburg, PA, Shoplifting Defense Lawyer Today
At The Hoover Firm, LLC, our Harrisburg shoplifting defense attorney is standing by, ready to protect your rights. If you or your loved one was arrested for shoplifting, please do not hesitate to contact us today for a fully confidential consultation. With an office in Harrisburg, we defend shoplifting charges throughout Central Pennsylvania.