Experienced Attorney for Retail Theft Charges
If you've been accused of stealing goods from a store — or even intending to steal them — you could be facing criminal shoplifting charges. Depending on the facts of your case, the consequences of these charges could be surprisingly severe.
I'm attorney Lance D. Gardner. Since 1983, I have defended everyone from teenagers to adult professionals against shoplifting charges. If you've been charged with shoplifting, don't hesitate to contact me at my offices in Fairfax to schedule a free consultation.
Understanding the Broad Scope of Virginia Shoplifting Laws
Under Virginia law, shoplifting is considered a form of larceny. While most people understand that taking goods out of a retail store without paying for them is shoplifting, any of the following behaviors can also be used as evidence of your intention to shoplift:
- Concealing goods on your person
- Altering price tags on merchandise
- Transferring goods from one container to another
Additionally, anything you do that has the effect of transferring goods or merchandise to your own use without paying the full purchase price for them — or defrauding the owner of the value of those goods — could be considered shoplifting under the law.
Avoiding or Reducing Serious Criminal Consequences
If you are accused of shoplifting less than $200 worth of goods, you will be charged with a misdemeanor. If the value of the stolen or converted property is more than that, you will be charged with a felony, which could have major consequences for your criminal record.
Felony retail theft charges are also punishable by up to 20 years in prison. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can play an important role in defending you against these serious charges. Let me help you today; contact my office to set up a consultation.
