Caught Shoplifting in Georgia? Here’s What You’re Really Facing
Shoplifting might seem like a minor offense, but in Georgia, it can carry serious legal consequences, especially if the value of the stolen items is high or if it’s not your first offense. Whether it’s a misunderstanding, a mistake, or a moment of poor judgment, being charged with shoplifting can lead to lasting damage to your record, reputation, and future. At The Spizman Firm in Atlanta, Georgia, we help clients facing theft charges understand what’s at stake and how to protect themselves moving forward.
What Counts as Shoplifting in Georgia?
Shoplifting isn’t just about walking out of a store with unpaid merchandise. Under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 16-8-14), shoplifting includes actions like:
- Concealing items with the intent to steal
- Altering or switching price tags
- Transferring merchandise from one container to another to avoid full payment
- Causing the amount paid to be less than the stated price
What matters most is the intent to deprive the store of its property without paying the correct amount. Even if you didn’t leave the store, you could still be charged if store personnel or security suspects an attempt to shoplift.
Misdemeanor vs. Felony Shoplifting Charges
In Georgia, the penalties for shoplifting depend on the value of the merchandise and whether you have any prior convictions.
- If the total value is $500 or less, the offense is typically charged as a misdemeanor. A conviction may lead to up to 12 months in jail, fines, probation, community service, and mandatory theft prevention classes.
- If the value exceeds $500, or if you have prior theft convictions, the charge may be elevated to a felony. Felony shoplifting is punishable by 1 to 10 years in prison and significantly higher fines.
Other circumstances, such as organized retail theft or working with others to commit the crime, can also lead to harsher penalties or additional charges.
Civil Penalties and Store Lawsuits
In addition to criminal penalties, Georgia law allows retailers to pursue civil damages from alleged shoplifters. Stores can demand repayment of the value of the goods, along with penalties up to $300, even if the merchandise was recovered. If you fail to respond to the civil demand, you could face a lawsuit.
Defending Against Shoplifting Charges
Shoplifting charges are often based on surveillance footage, eyewitness reports, or store security testimony, but these cases are not always clear-cut. We explore every angle, including:
- Mistaken identity
- Lack of intent to steal
- Misunderstandings about pricing or payment
- Illegal search and seizure by store employees or police
A strong defense can lead to reduced charges, dismissal, or participation in pretrial diversion programs that help first-time offenders avoid a conviction.
Get the Legal Help You Need Today
If you or a loved one is facing shoplifting charges, it’s critical to take the situation seriously and act quickly. Our Atlanta Criminal Defense Attorneys provide skilled legal representation for individuals accused of theft and work to protect your rights, your record, and your future.
The Spizman Firm proudly serves clients throughout Georgia, including Atlanta, Dunwoody, Alpharetta, Cobb County, Fulton County, Gwinnett County, Johns Creek, and Sandy Springs. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.
