Shoplifting is the theft of merchandise for sale in a shop by a patron. In Georgia, the threshold dollar amount between a felony shoplifting charge and a misdemeanor shoplifting charge is $300 (for other thefts, the threshold amount is $500). So, if the value of merchandise stolen is under $300, the individual will be charged with a misdemeanor, and is usually eligible for pre-trial diversion and expungement of the charge.

Oftentimes, if the store from which the shoplifting charge originated is part of a chain, such as Target, Wal-Mart, Macy's, J.C. Penney's, etc., you will probable receive a letter from corporate headquarters stating that if you pay a nominal fee (usually around $250), the store will not pursue a civil lawsuit against that person.

However, under the laws of Georgia, this is an empty threat because the merchandise is typically recovered by the store when the individual is arrested and the criminal punishment usually includes a fine. Thus, the store has no cause of action, and, typically, the letter should be disregarded if it is received.

Let our experience help you get shoplifting charges dismissed.