Shoplifting Laws in Tennessee

Shoplifting is a common offense heard in courts throughout the state of Tennessee. Although it is the most minor of all Tennessee theft crimes, a shoplifting conviction can negatively impact your future, especially in terms of job opportunities. Any future employer will not be enthusiastic about hiring someone who has been convicted of theft, even if it is a minor theft.

What is shoplifting exactly and how does it break down under Tennessee law? Shoplifting is described under Section 39.14 – 105 of the Tennessee Code. It is generally charged as a misdemeanor and involves retail theft. The theft may involve walking out of a retail outlet without paying for the item, switching or removing price tags, or other behaviors that add up to theft of the item(s). In cases where the value of the item(s) stolen exceed $500, it may be charged as a felony. Penalties for shoplifting something less than $500 include a fine of up to $2,500. Restitution to the retail store, community service, and probation may also be part of the consequences.

Shoplifting or theft of item(s) valued at $500 up to $1,000 is charged as a Class E felony punishable by one to two years in prison and a fine of up to $3,000. As the value of item(s) stolen increases beyond that, the offense escalates in the class of felony it involves. A Class A felony in this offense involves stealing something valued at $250,000 or more. This most serious felony is punishable by 15 to 25 years in prison and a fine of up to $50,000.

Criminal Defense Firm in Memphis, Tennessee

If you are facing shoplifting, theft, burglary, or robbery charges, you should get the skilled help of a criminal defense attorney immediately. The Claiborne Ferguson Law Firm, P.A. is a criminal defense firm that offers top-notch legal representation for those accused of these crimes as well as all other types of offenses, from DUI to domestic violence, federal and white collar crimes, sex crimes, drug crimes, and more. The firm has many outstanding features, including the fact that Mr. Ferguson is a Certified Criminal Trial Specialist, the top professional status an attorney can attain in the state.

The firm has earned a 10 out of 10 Superb rating by Avvo as well as an Avvo Client's Choice Award in Criminal Defense for 2013. These ratings and awards reflect the high quality of legal ability and client service you can expect when bringing your case to the firm's team. The sooner you get the legal advice and representation you need when facing any criminal charge, the sooner the legal team can get to work investigating your case to build a strategic defense. Contact the law offices to begin with a free, initial consultation now.