Farmington Hills Retail Fraud Lawyer
Experienced Retail Fraud Defense in Oakland County Since 2002
Some people might view retail fraud, commonly known as shoplifting, as a minor crime. However, the state of Michigan has serious penalties for those accused of retail fraud. In 2013, the state introduced a new law which created harsher penalties for those convicted of this type of theft. The law changed retail fraud from a misdemeanor to a felony in some circumstances. As a result, it’s more important than ever to call a Farmington Hills retail fraud attorney when you’re charged with shoplifting.
I, Daniel D. Hajji, Attorney at Law, provide proven defense strategies to people facing retail fraud charges in Oakland County and throughout Michigan. After more than two decades of working in Oakland County, I have earned a reputation for getting results for my clients. With every client, I seek the best possible outcome for their future, whether through reduced charges, a case dismissal, or an acquittal.
You shouldn’t face retail fraud charges alone. Call Daniel D. Hajji, Attorney at Law for a free consultation with an experienced Oakland County retail fraud attorney.
Retail Fraud in Michigan: Types & Penalties
Retail fraud happens in a variety of ways. While most associate the term with shoplifting or stealing merchandise directly from a retail location, there are other popular forms of it.
Retail fraud includes the following:
- Using false receipts to return an item
- Switching price tags on items
- Swapping a product out with damaged good to return them
- Returning stolen items
- Buying items at an employee discount and returning them for full price
Essentially, retail fraud involves any type of scheme in which an individual profits at the retailer's expense. It also involves sophisticated operations where a team of people works together to steal large quantities of goods. Nationally, retail fraud costs the industry about $50 billion annually.
In Michigan, three categories of retail fraud are outlined under the law.
Third-Degree Misdemeanor Retail Fraud
- Stolen goods valued at $200 or below
- Up to $500 in fines
- Up to 93 days in jail
Second-Degree Misdemeanor Retail Fraud
- Stolen goods valued above $200 and under $1,000
- Up to $2,000 in fines or three times the value of the merchandise
- Up to one year in jail
First-Degree Felony Retail Fraud
- Stolen goods valued above $1,000
- Charged for second-degree conviction with one prior
- Up to $10,000 in fines or 3 times the value of the stolen goods
- Up to five years in prison
A person’s misdemeanor retail fraud charges could be elevated to first-degree felony charges if they stole goods with the intent to sell them. This law was enacted by the state in 2013, and officials cited an increase in shoplifting to sell stolen goods as the reason for this law.
Obtain the Help of an Experienced Farmington Hills Retail Fraud Attorney
When you’re facing criminal Oakland County retail fraud charges, you need to obtain the help of an attorney as soon as possible. By obtaining legal help quickly, you provide your lawyer with the time they need to investigate your situation and develop a strong defense for your case.
I’ve been fighting for the residents of Oakland County since 2002. When I take a case, I dedicate all my time and resources to it and make sure that I update my clients through every step of the process. No one is guilty until proven otherwise, and I will approach your case from every angle to disprove the state’s case against you. You have rights, and I will protect them in the courtroom.
Call (248) 599-0054 for a free consultation. Don’t face your trial without the help of a retail fraud attorney!
I fight for defendants throughout Michigan, including those inFarmington Hills, Bloomfield, Troy, Southfield,Rochester Hills, Pontiac, Royal Oak, Novi, and all surrounding areas.