Grand Rapids Family Law

Grand Rapids Retail Fraud Defense | Shoplifting

No one wants a retail fraud or shoplifting conviction on their record. It carries a lasting stigma and affects future job prospects. If you are facing a charge for retail fraud — commonly called shoplifting — you should consult an attorney immediately. 

In Michigan, a retail fraud charge varies according to the amount you alleged to have stolen. Furthermore, a retail fraud charge can be enhanced with a prior retail fraud conviction.

First-degree retail fraud is a felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine (or 3 times the value of the difference in price, property stolen, or money/property obtained, whichever is greater). It can be charged when the value of the stolen property is $1,000 or more; it also can be charged when the value of the stolen property is $200 to $1,000 with a prior retail fraud conviction.  

Second-degree retail fraud is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year in jail and/or a $2,000 fine (or 3 times the value of the difference in price, property stolen, or money/property obtained, whichever is greater). It can be charged when the value of the stolen property is $200 or more but less than $1,000; it also can be charged when the value of the stolen property is less than $200 with a prior retail fraud conviction.  

Third-degree retail fraud is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 93 days in jail and/or a $500 fine (or 3 times the value of the difference in price, property stolen, or money/property obtained, whichever is greater). It can be charged when the value of the stolen property is less than $200 and the person has no prior retail fraud convictions.  

Depending on where the alleged theft occurred, you may be entitled to retail fraud diversion. It is important to discuss this with an attorney who knows where this option is available. Often a local municipality will be the prosecution for a third-degree retail fraud. In many cities, large retail store chains have a zero-tolerance policy for retail fraud and the city will aggressively prosecute all such cases no matter the circumstances. If you have been charged with shoplifting or retail fraud, consult an experienced retail fraud attorney immediately.

For more information about retail fraud and shoplifting from the experienced attorneys at The Britt Law Group PC, please contact us here or call us directly at 616.866.2700.