Greenville Shoplifting Defense Lawyer

Defining Shoplifting & Related Crimes

In the state of North Carolina, along with all other areas in the nation, it is against the law to take something that does not belong to you without the intention of returning the property. Under North Carolina General Statutes § 14-72, larceny of property (shoplifting) is defined as unlawfully taking, receiving or possessing stolen goods without the intention of ever giving the goods back to the original owner. According to this law, larceny of goods valued at more than $1,000 (one thousand dollars) is considered a Class H felony. In cases where a person is caught with less than $1,000 of goods, they may be charged with a Class 1 misdemeanor.

While the penalties of this crime vary with the amount of goods that are stolen, they will most likely be very costly and unwanted. If you have been falsely accused of shoplifting or larceny, immediately talk to a Greenville criminal defense attorney. In many cases involving shoplifting, a piece of merchandise is accidently slipped into a basket or a bag, and the alleged perpetrator had no intention of taking the item unlawfully. Even when attempts of amends are made by the person in question, a store owner may still press charges and push for maximum penalties to "set an example" out of this person. With cases of juvenile offenses of shoplifting, it is very important to talk to an attorney; your child's future is in jeopardy with this type of allegation.

Contact a Greenville Shoplifting Defense Attorney

At the Burch Law Office, our team takes the time to review and thoroughly evaluate your case when you first approach us for your free consultation. We understand that being charged with a crime that you did not commit can be terrifying, and we will do everything in our power to ensure that the truth is brought forward. To learn more about the theft charges you are facing and how our law firm can help, please call us today.

Contact a Greenville shoplifting lawyer at our office today for a free evaluation of your case.