Shoplifting And Theft

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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. Some Illinois courts offer diversionary programs that help address the psychological reasons that motivate shoplifting. If you qualify, no conviction or guilty plea will be entered, and you will be able to have the shoplifting charge completely erased from your record. For more information on what to expect and how to proceed, please read my blog post The Least You Should Know if Arrested for Shoplifting in Illinois.

This page gives a very general overview of the procedures, penalties, and defenses involved in an Illinois Theft or Shoplifting prosecution. Every case is fluid and unique and the law is constantly changing, so there is no substitute for having the facts of your case analyzed by an Illinois Theft and Shoplifting Lawyer.

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 is a list of the potential penalties for shoplifting and theft in Illinois:

Retail Theft (Shoplifting)

  • If the value of property stolen from a merchant is $300 or less, the theft is a class A Misdemeanor, punishable by up to a year in jail, 720 ILCS 5/16A-3,
  • If the value of property stolen from a merchant is $300 or more, the theft is a class 3 Felony, punishable by 2-5 years in jail, 720 ILCS 5/16A-3,

Theft From a Person

  • Theft of property under $500 from a person is a Class 3 Felony, (Potential 2-5 years in jail) unless the theft was committed in a school, place of worship, or is of government property, in which case it is a Class 2 Felony (Potential 3-7 years in jail),

Grand Theft

  • Theft of property between $500 and $10,000 and not from a person is a Class 3 Felony (Potential 2-5 years in jail),
  • Theft of property between $10,000 and 100,000 is a Class 2 Felony (Potential 3-7 years in jail), unless it was committed in a school, place of worship, or of government property, in which case it is a Class 1 Felony (Potential 4-15 years in jail).

Call for a Free Consultation

Facing a Shoplifting or Theft prosecution may be the most stressful thing you will ever go through in your life. I’ve helped protect the records of hundreds of people facing the same thing you are facing right now, and I can guide you through the road ahead. If there is a way to beat your case, I will find it. If there is a way to settle your case quickly while keeping your record clean, I will find it. On the way phone calls and email will be answered promptly and you will have direct access to me personally.

Call me at 312.789.8050 or contact us online for a free consultation.

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