Shoplifting Attorney in Lexington, SC

We Defend Against Shoplifting Charges in Lexington, South Carolina

At Kinard Law Group, our Lexington shoplifting attorney is a strong, experienced, and solutions-focused advocate for clients. Shoplifting is a serious charge. You need a top-rated lawyer on your side. If you or your loved one was arrested and charged with shoplifting in South Carolina, we can help.

An Overview of Criminal Shoplifting Laws in South Carolina

Shoplifting is a serious offense in South Carolina. The statute is S.C. Code § 16-13-110. The law covers taking merchandise, altering or removing price tags, transferring items into different containers, or attempting to leave the premises without paying the stated price. Notably, South Carolina’s shoplifting statute does not require proof of a completed theft. It only needs to show that the defendant acted with the intent to deprive the merchant of full value. The statute permits the prosecution of a person who conceals merchandise inside the store, even before reaching an exit.

Shoplifting in South Carolina May Be a Misdemeanor or a Felony

Classification depends on the value of the goods. Under South Carolina law, shoplifting merchandise valued at $2,000 or less is a misdemeanor punishable by up to thirty days in jail for low-level offenses and up to three years for enhanced misdemeanor charges. However, when the value exceeds $2,000 but is less than $10,000, the offense becomes a felony punishable by up to five years in prison. Merchandise valued at $10,000 or more also results in felony charges with exposure up to ten years in state prison.

Notably, shoplifting can be treated as an aggregate offense. If two separate shoplifting offenses happened relatively close together in time, they could be treated as a single offense. For example, if a person stole $1,000 from a store in Lexington one week and $1,500 from the same store the following week, those two amounts could be combined to justify a felony offense.

How Our Lexington Shoplifting Defense Lawyer Can Help

Shoplifting charges can be complicated. It would be a mistake to assume that shoplifting is a minor issue. It is a serious charge in South Carolina, potentially even a felony offense depending on the amount that was taken. At Kinard Law Group, we protect the rights of our clients. When you reach out to our Lexington law office, you will consult with a South Carolina defense lawyer who can:

• Review your case and answer questions about your rights;
• Investigate your shoplifting charges, gathering relevant evidence;
• Represent you before the police and prosecutors; and
• Take a proactive approach focused on getting you the best outcome.

Call Our Lexington, SC Shoplifting Defense Attorney Today

At Kinard Law Group, our Lexington shoplifting defense lawyer provides solutions-driven legal representation. If you or your loved one was arrested and charged with shoplifting, we are here to help. Contact us today to schedule your completely confidential consultation. We defend those facing shoplifting charges in Lexington and throughout South Carolina.