Shoplifting Attorney in Dayton, OH
An arrest for a petty theft or shoplifting charge may seem like a small thing when compared to the other, more threatening offenses that come through the court system daily. However, when considering your future it is important to remember that a theft charge is also a challenge to your honesty and integrity as a contributing member of society. Beyond the punitive damage a theft conviction can do to your future, you could also be facing a lifetime of stigma and distrust. A dedicated Dayton criminal defense attorney can help protect your rights, ensure you get a fair trial if necessary, and fight to protect your future from an association with dishonesty for a charge of petty theft or shoplifting.
Dayton Petty Theft Lawyer Near You
The legal team at Joslyn Law Firm are experienced in handling theft and shoplifting cases like yours in Montgomery County, Miami County, Clark County, Greene County, and the surrounding areas. If you’ve been charged with petty theft or shoplifting they will examine your case closely for cracks in the prosecution’s evidence in order to attempt a reduction or dismissal of your charges. Your first consultation with an experienced shoplifting attorney at Joslyn Law Firm is free, so call (937) 356-3969 to schedule yours today.
Petty Crimes Information Center
What Is Petty Theft in Ohio?
Understanding Important Theft Definitions in Montgomery County
According to §2913.02 of the Ohio Revised Code, An individual can be charged with petty theft in Ohio if they knowingly take or control property or services under $500:
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- Without the owner or another authorized person’s consent,
- Beyond the owner’s permissive use,
- By threat,
- By intimidation, or
- By deception.
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It is unlawful for a person to obtain or exert control over the property or services of another with the purpose of depriving him or her of that property. This is the simplest definition of theft and means simply that you cannot take the property of another person.
Other important definitions are as follows:
- Owner – Any person other than the alleged offender who has possession, control of, license, or interest in the property or services allegedly stolen
- Services – Includes labor, personal services, professional services, rental services, public utility services, wireless service, food, drink, transportation, entertainment, and cable service
- Deception – Knowingly deceiving or causing another to be deceived by false or misleading representation, through withholding information, through preventing an outside party from acquiring information, or any act that creates, confirms, or perpetuates a false impression as to law, value, state of mind, or other factor
Each legal definition has various implications that can be helpful or harmful to your defense of a petty theft or shoplifting charge. An experienced Dayton criminal defense attorney can examine your case in detail and find factors to help mitigate the charges against you.
What Are The Penalties for Shoplifting in Ohio?
The penalties for a shoplifting or petty theft charge depend largely on the circumstances surrounding your alleged theft offense.
First-Degree Misdemeanor Petty Theft – This is the theft charge if the value of the alleged stolen goods is less than $1,000
Fifth-Degree Felony Theft – With property or services valued at $1,000 – $7,500, the charge is theft, which is punishable by 6-12 months in prison and/or a fine not to exceed $2,500.
If you steal goods or services for more than $7,500 dollars it is no longer considered petty theft and moves into the category of grand theft.
These charges for petty theft and shoplifting are not to be taken lightly. Even an arrest for shoplifting on your record with no conviction can send signals to potential employers and institutions of higher education that you are unreliable and dishonest. If you are convicted of a felony, you may also be facing the loss of your right to vote and run for office. An experienced Montgomery County criminal defense attorney will be able to help you construct a solid defense and fight for a favorable outcome.
Contact A Dayton Petty Theft/Shoplifting Attorney Near You
If you’ve been charged with a shoplifting or petty theft offense in Dayton, Kettering, Huber Heights, Troy, Piqua, Springfield, Beavercreek, Fairborn, or the surrounding areas, call the attorneys at Joslyn Law Firm for considerate customer service and a customized defense for your case. If you’re seeking pretrial negotiation, motions to dismiss or suppress, a better plea bargain, or a strong case for a trial contact us at (937) 356-3969. Your first consultation is free, so call today.
