Retail Theft Shoplifting Defense Milford, CT
Milford, Connecticut Shoplifting Defense Attorneys Assist Those Facing Retail Theft Charges
Connecticut Law Firm Provides Aggressive Defense Against Shoplifting Charges
Shoplifting in Connecticut is a serious crime with penalties that include fines and jail time. In addition to criminal charges, shoplifters may also face lawsuits brought against them in civil court by retail merchants to recover the value of the goods stolen. Shoplifters in Connecticut can be sued in civil court for the retail value of the merchandise not returned in saleable condition, punitive damages up to $300, the costs of the lawsuit, and any applicable attorney fees amassed by the merchant.
Shoplifting charges in Connecticut may lead to jail time and hefty fines, but there are some defenses available to those facing a shoplifting or retail theft charge, such as:
- Accelerated pretrial rehabilitation diversion programs for those accused of non-serious crimes. Those accepted into such programs remain on probation or supervision for up to two years, but if the participant successfully completes the requirements of the program, the criminal charges will be dropped by the court, upon notification of the completion.
- If diversion programs are not a possibility, an experienced criminal defense attorney may be able to negotiate a plea bargain with the prosecutor. A plea bargain typically means pleading guilty in exchange for lesser charges or a reduced sentence.
A qualified retail theft defense attorney can help you to understand the options you may have for dealing with a shoplifting charge. Mark Kratter LLC has been successfully defending Milford citizens faced with shoplifting charges for more than 20 years. Contact the Law Offices of Mark M. Kratter, LLC online or call 203-678-8135 to set up a free initial consultation with one of our criminal defense attorneys today.