Waukesha Retail Theft Defense Attorneys

Lawyers for Shoplifting Cases in Brookfield, Greendale, and Wauwatosa

In the state of Wisconsin, retail theft and shoplifting offenses can range in severity from simple tickets to misdemeanor offenses to very serious felony crimes. There are many variables that could affect the level of charges, and it is understandable that you might feel confused and overwhelmed if you have been accused of retail theft. The good news is that you are not alone; the team at Bucher, Wolff & Sonderhouse, LLP is here to help you protect your rights and your future.

Ordinance Violations and Criminal Offenses for Retail Theft

Depending on the jurisdiction, a first offense for low-level retail theft will result in a citation from the local police. If you have received a ticket for shoplifting merchandise valued at less than $100, you are not facing criminal charges. However, it may still be in your best interest to challenge the citation, especially if you did not commit the alleged offense. Our attorneys can help you determine the best course of action for dealing with a retail theft ordinance violation.

If you are accused of stealing merchandise valued at more than $100, you could be charged with a crime. Retail theft of merchandise valued at $500 or less is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by fines of up to $10,000, up to nine months in jail, or both. Felony charges are possible if the merchandise in question is valued at more than $500. In any retail theft case, you could also be required to pay restitution of the value of the merchandise in question.

Shoplifting is the most common type of retail theft, but other actions could result in retail theft charges under Wisconsin law, including:

• Switching or altering price tags;
• Concealing merchandise;
• Removing theft-detection devices while in the store;
• Using, or possessing with intent to use, a theft detection shielding device, including specifically designed bags or boxes; or 
• Using, or possessing with intent to use, a theft detection device remover

The prosecutor will need to show that you engaged in such behavior with the intent of taking the merchandise from the store without paying.

Lawyer in Delafield and Menomonee Falls for Theft Crimes Defense

The attorneys at Bucher, Wolff & Sonderhouse, LLP have more than 40 years of combined experience in the practice of criminal law. We understand that while many people consider shoplifting to be "no big deal," the reality is that it is a big deal, and the consequences can be devastating. A conviction on retail theft charges could leave you with a criminal record that follows you for the rest of your life.

If you are facing charges for shoplifting, your first call should be to our firm. We will go right to work in reviewing the situation and developing a strategy for managing your case. Our lawyers will examine video footage, police reports, statements from witnesses and store personnel, and any other evidence that might be used against you. Depending on the circumstances, we might be able to negotiate a full dismissal of your charges, but we are prepared to take your case all the way to trial if appropriate.

Call 262-232-6699 Today

To learn more about our approach to retail theft or shoplifting cases, contact our office today. Call 262-232-6699 for a free consultation with an experienced criminal defense attorney. Our phones are answered 24/7, so we are always ready to take your call. We represent clients in Waukesha, Muskego, Brookfield, New Berlin, Menomonee Falls, Pewaukee, Oconomowoc, Delafield, Milwaukee, Waukesha County, Milwaukee County, and the surrounding areas.