Sometimes, people consider a minor offense of retail theft to be unimportant, and they assume that if they are caught, they will receive a relatively light sentence or no penalty at all. That may be true, but a conviction for shoplifting results in a criminal record that is permanent and cannot be expunged without a Governor's Pardon. In Pennsylvania, retail theft is a summary offense that will affect subsequent offenses of the same nature. The first offense is counted as a summary offense, much the same as a traffic ticket. But make no mistake about it, if not handled properly, you could end up with the record discussed above. The second offense, regardless of the amount involved, is charged as a misdemeanor, with the third offense rising to the level of a felony offense.
If convicted of any one of these levels of retail theft offenses, you could also face limitations in access to certain professions such as teaching or obtaining a teaching certificate in Pennsylvania. In other words, even a minor conviction for retail theft can result in years of education being jeopardized. Contact Fleming Law Offices, so our lawyer can arrange a free meeting to help you understand your charges and the possible consequences you face.
State College Property-Related Crimes Attorney Tim Fleming
As a former assistant district attorney for the state of Pennsylvania, attorney Fleming has prosecuted numerous felony, misdemeanor and summary level cases. This experience gives him insight into the tactics used by the prosecution, so he can build strong defense cases for his clients.
For more than 30 years, our firm's team of legal professionals has helped thousands of people throughout the Pennsylvania area. We understand that good people make bad decisions sometimes. You will not be judged, regardless of the charges you are facing. You will be treated with the same respect and courtesy we offer our loved ones.
Property-related crimes often involve criminal mischief (vandalism), arson, burglaries, thefts, credit card forgery, forgery of checks, illegal access to credit card accounts and bank accounts, and unlawful access to a computer. If you are charged with any one of these crimes, serious consequences can follow, which can result in criminal records on both the felony and misdemeanor levels.
Moreover, a conviction for robbery, burglary or other theft crimes will brand you as a dishonest person and can limit you in all types of careers such as business, banking, finances, investment advising and some professions that require government background checks for security purposes. Your criminal record will follow you throughout your life. Our team of legal professionals works tirelessly for our clients to get criminal records erased and restore their lives to normal.
THE GOVERNOR'S PARDON PROCESS — Since 1991, Fleming Law Offices has never lost a pardon case. Let us win for you and permanently clear any existing record that you may have.
Before you talk to anyone else about your case, contact our State College property crimes defense attorney Tim Fleming to arrange your free consultation. Tim will return your call promptly and schedule a convenient time, so he can explain your legal rights and your options.
Bad legal decisions can result in bad outcomes that can be expensive and difficult, if not impossible to correct.
Make the right move with Fleming Law Offices.
