How do I keep a Shoplifting Charge off of my Permanent Record?

Most people who shoplift don't do it because they really need the item, but rather, for the thrill and excitement it gives. As your attorney, my main concern is making sure that a careless mistake does not stay on your permanent record and haunt you for the rest of your life. Some Illinois courts, Cook County for example, may offer excellent diversionary programs that help address the psychological reasons that motivate shoplifters. These programs, if properly completed, mean that no conviction or guilty plea will be entered, and you will qualify to have the shoplifting charge completely erased from your record.

All people make mistakes. Having an Illinois criminal lawyer who knows the right diversionary program, and how to get his client into it, can prevent a shoplifting charge from haunting you later in life when you apply for college or a job.

What are the Penalties for Theft and Shoplifting in Illinois?

As the value of the property you are accused of stealing increases, so do the potential penalties. Here you will find a list of the potential penalties for theft in Illinois.

• If the value of the stolen property is $300 or less and it was not stolen directly from a person, the theft is a class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to a year in jail. Many shoplifting charges fall under this category. Although the offense is punishable by jail time, if you are a first offender it is not likely that you will serve any time in jail.
• If the value of the stolen property is $300 or less and it was stolen directly from a person, the theft is a class 3 felony punishable by 2 to 5 years in prison. Even if you are accused of shoplifting an item valued over $300, it is still possible to reduce the charge to a class A misdemeanor.
• If the value of the property was more than $300 but not more than $10,000, the offense is a class 3 felony which carries a possible sentence of 2 to 5 years in prison.
• If the value of the property is between $10,001 and $100,000, the offense is a class 2 felony which is punishable by 3 to 7 years in prison.
• If the value of the property is between $100,001 and $500,000, the offense is a class 1 felony punishable by 4 to 15 years in prison.
• If the value of the property is above $500,000 it is a class 1 felony punishable by 4 to 15 years in prison.

Free Consultation on a Theft or Shoplifting Charge in Illinois

No matter what the police told you, you are always better off speaking to an experienced Illinois criminal lawyer about your case. While you can educate yourself on what you are facing at this website, the circumstance of every case are different and fact specific. Call our office today at 312.789.8050 for a free consultation on the unique facts of your Illinois theft or shoplifting case.