With Shoplifting, The Criminal Penalty May be the Least of Your Problems

Let’s be clear. Jail and prison are terrible and nobody wants to be there. This is true for any charge but is also can apply to shoplifting charges depending upon the value of the merchandise allegedly taken and any prior record. In fact, Jack Rice Defense has represented countless individuals charged with shoplifting and we have written extensively on the topic as well. However, the focus on this article might be a little more nebulous but is actually far more important: the consequences for a shoplifting conviction to your life, other than jail or prison. If you are facing shoplifting charges in Minnesota, make sure you consult with an experienced Shoplifting Criminal Defense Attorney. Jack Rice Defense will not judge you and we’ve got your back. .

“It not the short term consequences but the long term ones that matter most here.”

What Are the Criminal Penalties for Shoplifting here in Minnesota?

Individuals convicted of shoplifting less than $500 can face:

• A Misdemeanor;

• Fines up to $1,000; and

• Up to 90 days in jail.

Individuals convicted of shoplifting between $500-1,000 can face:

• A Gross Misdemeanor;

• Fines up to $3,000; and

• Up to a year in jail.

Individuals convicted of shoplifting between $1,000-5,000 can face:

• A Felony;

• Fines up to $10,000; and

• Up to 5 years in prison.

Individuals convicted of shoplifting between $5000- $35,000 can face:

• A Felony;

• Fines up to $20,000; and

• Up to 10 years in prison.

Individuals convicted of shoplifting more than $35,000 can face:

• A Felony;

• Up to $100,000; and

• Up to 20 years in prison.

What are the Additional Consequences of a Shoplifting Conviction?

Have you ever heard the phrase, “Your reputation precedes you” or “A person’s word is their bond”? It actually means something. It might be about skill, capability, intelligence, talent and more. It might also be about something far more core like a reputation for honesty or sadly, dishonesty. This is what a criminal conviction for shoplifting might do. What happens you have to disclose a shoplifting conviction from this year, last year, 10 years ago and you spend your allotted time trying to explain why it doesn’t or shouldn’t matter? I think you see the point.

A person who carries around a shoplifting conviction in Minnesota may face far more than the criminal ramifications. The additional consequences may include:

• Trouble renting an home;

• Trouble purchasing a home;

• Difficulty taking out a loan of any kind;

• Difficulty applying and keeping a job;

• Challenges getting a professional license;

• Trouble applying to school;

• Difficulty with professional relationships;

• Challenges involving personal relationships.

As you can see, a criminal conviction can hit just about any corner of your life. Sometimes, it is easier to try and ignore it and move forward and to just plead, and then bury it. The problem is that criminal convictions are things that people can dig up. As a result, and knowing the ramifications listed above, it is critical that you deal with it now. In fact, if you don’t, you may not have the ability to fix it later.

“You might have one opportunity to handle this correctly. You miss it and its gone.”

If you are facing shoplifting charges here in Minnesota, you need to sit down with an experienced Minnesota Shooting Defense Attorney immediately. The consequences of any criminal conviction are important and you also need to understand your rights. At the same time, it may be even more important to understand how this kind of conviction can impact your life.

Jack Rice is a Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist, former prosecutor and former CIA Officer. He is also a nationally known and recognized criminal defense attorney and Founder of Jack Rice Defense, a boutique criminal defense firm in St. Paul , MN. Contact Jack Rice Defense for a free confidential consultation or call 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339.