Shoplifting in 2025 is becoming an increasingly visible issue across the retail landscapes in the United States. According to the Freedom for All Americans website, it is projected by several analysts that the total retail theft might hit around $115 billion by the end of the year.
You might think that a minor object would not carry any grave consequences, but it is not always the case. For example, Tennessee probation law may affect your case differently depending on the specific crime if you are settling in the state. Misdemeanor and felony charges may differ in the vast majority of occurrences, and your previous criminal record weighs heavily.
A theft conviction may have long-term ramifications you haven’t even thought about. What might apply in your case? Let’s explore this topic more.
Understanding Shoplifting Laws
If you are caught shoplifting, there is a consideration you must give to the laws that apply in your case. The term “shoplifting” refers to the act of stealing goods from stores without payment. Individual states set out their own laws concerning the value of goods illegally taken and the possible penalties you might face. Knowing these will assist you in dealing with this matter later.
Shops will have their own policies with regard to dealing with shoplifters, which might involve an arrest. Alongside the criminal charges, you may face civil penalties, such as penalties for exaggeration or the requirement to make restitution.
Theft lawyer Zachary North says in some states, theft crimes that carry a sentence of less than a year in jail are classified as misdemeanors. If the sentence is longer than a year, the offender may be charged with a felony and fined up to $100,000.
If ever you find yourself in such trying circumstances, it is wise to get legal advice on how to protect your rights.
Misdemeanor vs. Felony Theft Charges
Understanding the transformation of theft into misdemeanors or felonies is important, as penalties are imposed accordingly.
Petty thefts, or thefts of things below a stipulated price under some code section, may be punishable by a fine, community service, or a brief stint in the county jail, or so on.
In felony theft, it will have a higher value or be under special conditions. Not getting into jail for a nice long time and hefty fines.
There are so many classifications of theft that one has to be very serious and important in knowing exactly what type of charge they are facing, so that they may prepare a defense.
The very complicated area of law requires an attorney to go with you so that maybe the penalties may be somewhat lessened or, at the absolute minimum, you will be aware of your rights and options moving forward.
Factors Influencing Penalties
Different factors vary the penalties for theft. Among those are the amount of money involved in the property stolen, your previous criminal background, and the circumstances surrounding the alleged crime.
Theft charges with high-value items may carry heavier penalties than petty theft charges. Much consideration is given to the history of crimes. For example, a first time charge may lead to a lighter sentence, while multiple sentences for theft could attract harsher penalties.
The degree of use of force or intimidation during theft, and whether it has been organized or not, could also be put into consideration in determining your sentence. Every case is different, and educating yourself on these factors will allow you to have an idea of possible consequences ahead of you.
Potential Consequences of a Theft Conviction
Seriously considering theft could come with grave consequences extending beyond fines or imprisonment. Getting employment may be problematic, as background checks may be mandatory, and the employer would be cautious about hiring someone with a theft record.
A theft conviction could rob you of professional licenses, whereby you cannot practice certain professions. Your reputation would be crippled, taking all personal relationships with it and downgrading your social standing.
If a student has a conviction, it could be adverse to the chances of obtaining financial aid or scholarships. Further offenses could attract stricter punishments in the form of increased sentences.
The consequences of a theft conviction will be trailing you for many years, affecting several other areas in your life and the future opportunities therein.
Read More: Penalties for Employers Who Fail to Carry Workers’ Comp Insurance
Legal Defenses Against Theft Charges
Theft is a legal charge that has many defenses that can be asserted against it to throw doubt on the charges. One such defense is that the thief never intended to take the property. For example, you could claim that they believed whatever they picked up belonged to them or that it was given to them.
Theft law recognizes the fact that a person authorized by the owner of the stolen property hasn’t committed a crime. If indeed a victim gave consent or was capable of actually giving consent, theft cannot be committed, and such a person or persons may have been charged wrongly or confused with a similar description.
Any evidence that may be produced should be shown to have been forcibly extracted from you unconstitutionally, and thereby it must be dismissed. Always seek the advice of attorneys who may help you explain your case and mount a defense against you.
