The Criminal Defense Law Center of
West Michigan

Retail Fraud Defense Lawyer: Expert Legal Aid When You Need It Most

Expert Legal Support for Retail Fraud cases - Shawn Haff offers specialized legal representation for those facing Retail Fraud charges. His approach is tailored to protect your rights and ease the stress of legal proceedings. Contact Shawn Haff for a personalized defense strategy that makes a difference in your case.

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616-438-6719

Shoplifting Defense: The Importance of Choosing The Right Attorney

Facing shoplifting charges without expert legal help can leave you overwhelmed, stressed, and at risk of unfair treatment in the legal system. Not securing specialized representation could mean not having your voice heard or your rights fully protected.

The stakes are high, impacting your personal and professional life. Shawn Haff offers the compassionate, skilled defense you need to navigate these challenges and ensure your side is fairly represented.

Top Retail Fraud Law Firm: Delivering Compassionate, Effective Legal Solutions

With Shawn Haff, you're not just getting a lawyer; you're gaining an advocate dedicated to protecting your rights. His expert legal representation, focus on reducing your stress, and commitment to fair representation in the legal system form the pillars of his service.

These benefits are not just promises, but a pathway to a more secure future in your legal journey.

Expert Legal Representation

Stress Reduction

Fair Representation

Gain access to Shawn Haff’s specialized legal knowledge in retail fraud cases.

Feel less overwhelmed with a trusted lawyer handling your case, providing peace of mind.

Ensure your voice is heard and your rights are protected in the legal system.

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Retail Fraud Defense Lawyer In Grand Rapids MI: Your Trusted Partner in Legal Challenges

As your legal guide, Shawn Haff deeply understands the stress and uncertainty of facing retail fraud charges. His empathetic approach ensures you feel heard and supported throughout your legal journey. With extensive experience in handling shoplifting charges, Shawn demonstrates authoritative expertise in navigating the complexities of the legal system. His track record of successfully defending clients shows his commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes, positioning him as a trusted ally in safeguarding your rights and future.

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Best Shoplifting Attorney: Strategic Legal Action for Your Case

Facing legal challenges can be daunting, but with Shawn Haff, the path to effective defense is clear and straightforward.
Our three-step process is designed to make your experience as seamless as possible. From your initial consultation to the development and implementation of your defense strategy, Shawn is committed to guiding you through each phase with expertise and care. Here's how you can easily start your journey towards a strong legal defense.

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How Shawn Can Help You: Insights from a Seasoned Retail Fraud Defense Lawyer

As a criminal defense lawyer based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Attorney Shawn Haff understands that facing retail fraud charges can be a daunting and overwhelming experience. Thankfully, Criminal Defense Lawyer Shawn Haff is here to offer his expertise and support to help you navigate through the legal system and overcome the challenges you may be facing in West Michigan courtrooms.

Shawn will provide you with strong legal representation, conduct a thorough and detailed investigation and develop effective defense strategies tailored to your unique case. Shawn is dedicated to protecting your rights and fighting for your freedom. Shawn has handled a vast amount of Retail Fraud charges, with outstanding results for his clients.

One of the keyways Shawn helps his clients is by thoroughly examining the evidence against them and identifying any weaknesses or inconsistencies. This allows me to build a strong defense and challenge the prosecution's case. Attorney Shawn also have a deep understanding of the criminal justice system and have developed relationships with prosecutors and judges, which can be beneficial in negotiating for reduced charges or penalties.

Success for Shawn's clients means achieving the best possible outcome for their case. This could include having charges dropped, negotiating a plea deal for reduced charges or penalties, or winning a not guilty verdict at trial. Shawn will strive to provide his clients with peace of mind and the best possible chance for a positive outcome.

As Grand Rapid's Michigan's best shoplifting defense lawyer, Shawn is committed to providing his clients with personalized attention and support throughout the entire legal process. Shawn knows the stress and uncertainty that comes with facing criminal charges, and he will guide you every step of the way. Shawn will listen to your concerns, answer any questions you may have, and keep you updated on the progress of your case.

In addition his legal expertise, Shawn brings empathy, compassion, and a non-judgmental approach to my practice. Shawn treats his clients with dignity and respect, regardless of the accusations against them. He is committed to fighting for justice and protecting the rights of my clients, no matter the circumstances.

Choosing the right criminal defense lawyer can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. With my experience, dedication, and personalized approach, Shawn knows he can help you overcome your legal challenges and achieve a successful resolution. Don't face your criminal charges alone, let me be the advocate and ally you need in your corner. Contact me today to schedule a consultation and see how Shawn can help you at 616-438-6719.

Common Fears

Our Answer

 

1. Fear of Unfair Representation 

 

 

2. Complexity of Legal Procedures

 

 

3. Concerns Over Legal Costs

 

 

4. Doubts About Case Outcome

 

 

5. Worry About Confidentiality and Privacy

 

 

Shawn Haff ensures each client receives fair, unbiased representation, with a focus on presenting your side of the story effectively.

Shawn simplifies the legal process, guiding you through each step with clear explanations and a well-planned defense strategy.

We offer transparent pricing and can discuss financial arrangements to accommodate different budgets, ensuring affordability.

Shawn’s track record of successful case handling provides reassurance of his commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes.

Client confidentiality and privacy are paramount, with all communications and case details handled with the utmost discretion.

 

 

Retail Fraud And Shoplifting Defense Attorneys
Grand Rapids, Michigan

Attorney Shawn Haff of The Criminal Defense Law Center of West Michigan represents those who are accused of retail fraud.  You can rest easy knowing that our lawyers have a good understanding of the law and how to work the legal process to you the best results possible.

Retail Fraud is one of the most common criminal offenses in the State of Michigan. This crime is commonly referred to as shoplifting. 

The consequences for a shoplifting conviction in Michigan include jail time, prison, extensive probation, community service, therapy, drug, and alcohol testing and fines and costs. 

Attorney Shawn Haff of The Criminal Defense Law Center of West Michigan has the experience you need in defending clients from retail fraud charges all across West Michigan. He will fight hard to get your charges dismissed when possible.

The fact that you are being charged in a Grand Rapids court for retail fraud does not mean you are bad individual. The Criminal Defense Law Center of West Michigan often represents people have never been in trouble before. The incident can be described correctly as an isolated incident and something that will never happen again. 

The repercussions a person faces though can be very serious and have a very negative impact on your life.  A conviction of retail fraud can include: probation, loss of freedom, loss of professional licensing, negative immigration complications, loss of your job and educational opportunities.  When you need to hire the best Grand Rapids, Michigan Retail Fraud defense lawyers get in touch with us today!

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What is Retail Fraud?

For a prosecutor to prove the charge of Retail Fraud several elements must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

  1. The prosecutor must prove that the defendant took control of the property a store offered for sale.
  2. The Prosecutor must show that the defendant moved the property.
  3. The Prosecutor must prove the collective value of the property in question.
  4. The Prosecutor must prove the defendant intended to steal the property.
 

If the Prosecutor can prove the value of the property stolen was $1,000 or more, the charge is first degree retail fraud which is a felony. The defendant can receive a prison sentence.  If the value was $200 or more but less than $1,000 the offense is Second Degree Retail Fraud.  This is a misdemeanor and is punishable by a maximum sentence of 1 year in jail.  finally if the value is less than $200, the offense is Retail Fraud in the third degree which is punishable by 93 days in jail.

What would otherwise be a retail fraud-third or second degree can be enhanced to a retail fraud first degree if the defendant has prior retail fraud convictions.

Embezzlement, fraud and retail fraud charges can be very complex and very unique for every individual. This makes it very important to have an experienced lawyer in your corner. We can provide you with aggressive criminal defense against any and all forms of fraud or embezzlement charges.  Our defense attorneys can also represent you against all white collar criminal charges such as embezzlement and retail fraud. We won’t judge you. Instead, we will work hard on your case and keep you in touch every step of the way.

Retail fruad is also known as shoplifting

Retail Fraud 1st Degree Charges in Grand Rapids, Michigan

(1) A person who does any of the following in a store or in its immediate vicinity is guilty of retail fraud first degree, a felony punishable by imprisonment for not more than 5 years or a fine of not more than $10,000.00 or 3 times the value of the difference in price, property stolen, or money or property obtained or attempted to be obtained, whichever is greater, or both imprisonment and a fine:

(a) While a store is open to the public, alters, transfers, removes and replaces, conceals, or otherwise misrepresents the price at which property is offered for sale, with the intent not to pay for the property or to pay less than the price at which the property is offered for sale, if the resulting difference in price is $1,000.00 or more.

(b) While a store is open to the public, steals property of the store that is offered for sale at a price of $1,000.00 or more.

(c) With intent to defraud, obtains or attempts to obtain money or property from the store as a refund or exchange for property that was not paid for and belongs to the store, if the amount of money or the value of the property obtained or attempted to be obtained is $1,000.00 or more.

(2) A person who violates section 356d(1) and who has 1 or more prior convictions for committing or attempting to commit an offense under this section or section 218, 356, 356d(1), or 360 is guilty of retail fraud first degree. For purposes of this subsection, however, a prior conviction does not include a conviction for a violation or attempted violation of section 218(2) or (3)(b) or section 356(4)(b) or (5).

(3) The values of the difference in price, property stolen, or money or property obtained or attempted to be obtained in separate incidents pursuant to a scheme or course of conduct within any 12-month period may be aggregated to determine the total value involved in the offense under this section.

(4) If the prosecuting attorney intends to seek an enhanced sentence based upon the defendant having 1 or more prior convictions, the prosecuting attorney shall include on the complaint and information a statement listing the prior conviction or convictions. The existence of the defendant’s prior conviction or convictions shall be determined by the court, without a jury, at sentencing or at a separate hearing for that purpose before sentencing. The existence of a prior conviction may be established by any evidence relevant for that purpose, including, but not limited to, 1 or more of the following:

(a) A copy of the judgment of conviction.

(b) A transcript of a prior trial, plea-taking, or sentencing.

(c) Information contained in a presentence report.

(d) The defendant’s statement.

(5) A person who commits retail fraud first degree shall not be prosecuted under section 218(5) or 356(2).

(6) If the sentence for a conviction under this section is enhanced by 1 or more prior convictions, those prior convictions shall not be used to further enhance the sentence for the conviction pursuant to section 10, 11, or 12 of chapter IX of the code of criminal procedure, 1927 PA 175, MCL 769.10, 769.11, and 769.12.

Organized Retail Theft is also a felony charge. This charge carries with it a maximum prison sentence of up to five years in prison. The charge is filed against a person with the defendant steals merchandise for sale with the intent to resell the stolen goods to another business or person. 

Retail Fraud 2nd Degree Charges in Michigan

Sec. 356d.

(1) A person who does any of the following in a store or in its immediate vicinity is guilty of retail fraud second degree, a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for not more than 1 year or a fine of not more than $2,000.00 or 3 times the value of the difference in price, property stolen, or money or property obtained or attempted to be obtained, whichever is greater, or both imprisonment and a fine:

(a) While a store is open to the public, alters, transfers, removes and replaces, conceals, or otherwise misrepresents the price at which property is offered for sale with the intent not to pay for the property or to pay less than the price at which the property is offered for sale if the resulting difference in price is $200.00 or more but less than $1,000.00.

(b) While a store is open to the public, steals property of the store that is offered for sale at a price of $200.00 or more but less than $1,000.00.

(c) With intent to defraud, obtains or attempts to obtain money or property from the store as a refund or exchange for property that was not paid for and belongs to the store if the amount of money or the value of the property obtained or attempted to be obtained is $200.00 or more but less than $1,000.00.

(2) A person who violates subsection (4) and who has 1 or more prior convictions for committing or attempting to commit an offense under this section, section 218, 356, 356c, or 360, or a local ordinance substantially corresponding to this section or section 218, 356, 356c, or 360 is guilty of retail fraud in the second degree.

(3) A person who commits retail fraud in the second degree shall not be prosecuted under section 360.

(6) The values of the difference in price, property stolen, or money or property obtained or attempted to be obtained in separate incidents pursuant to a scheme or course of conduct within any 12-month period may be aggregated to determine the total value involved in the offense under this section.

(7) If the prosecuting attorney intends to seek an enhanced sentence based upon the defendant having 1 or more prior convictions, the prosecuting attorney shall include on the complaint and information a statement listing the prior conviction or convictions. The existence of the defendant’s prior conviction or convictions shall be determined by the court, without a jury, at sentencing or at a separate hearing for that purpose before sentencing. The existence of a prior conviction may be established by any evidence relevant for that purpose, including, but not limited to, 1 or more of the following:

(a) A copy of the judgment of conviction.

(b) A transcript of a prior trial, plea-taking, or sentencing.

(c) Information contained in a presentence report.

(d) The defendant’s statement.

Retail Fraud 3rd Degree Charges in Michigan

A person who does any of the following in a store or in its immediate vicinity is guilty of retail fraud third degree, a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for not more than 93 days or a fine of not more than $500.00 or 3 times the value of the difference in price, property stolen, or money or property obtained or attempted to be obtained, whichever is greater, or both imprisonment and a fine:

(a) While a store is open to the public, alters, transfers, removes and replaces, conceals, or otherwise misrepresents the price at which property is offered for sale, with the intent not to pay for the property or to pay less than the price at which the property is offered for sale, if the resulting difference in price is less than $200.00.

(b) While a store is open to the public, steals the property of the store that is offered for sale at a price of less than $200.00.

(c) With intent to defraud, obtains or attempts to obtain money or property from the store as a refund or exchange for property that was not paid for and belongs to the store, if the amount of money, or the value of the property, obtained or attempted to be obtained is less than $200.00.

(5) A person who commits retail fraud third degree shall not be prosecuted under section 360.

(6) The values of the difference in price, property is stolen, or money or property obtained or attempted to be obtained in separate incidents pursuant to a scheme or course of conduct within any 12-month period may be aggregated to determine the total value involved in the offense under this section.

(7) If the prosecuting attorney intends to seek an enhanced sentence based upon the defendant having 1 or more prior convictions, the prosecuting attorney shall include on the complaint and information a statement listing the prior conviction or convictions. The existence of the defendant’s prior conviction or convictions shall be determined by the court, without a jury, at sentencing or at a separate hearing for that purpose before sentencing. The existence of a prior conviction may be established by any evidence relevant for that purpose, including, but not limited to, 1 or more of the following:

(a) A copy of the judgment of conviction.

(b) A transcript of a prior trial, plea-taking, or sentencing.

(c) Information contained in a presentence report.

(d) The defendant’s statement.

Organized Retail Fraud And Shoplifting Charges in Grand Rapids, Michigan

This charge is a felony. The maximum punishment for this crime is five years in prison.  This charge does not carry with it any mandatory jail or prison time. It is a felony charge that carries with it applicable sentencing under habitual offender.  To be charged with organized retail theft, the defendant must engage in shoplifting and then sell the shoplifted items to another business or person. 

Removal of a Theft Detection Device

This misdemeanor retail fraud charge allows a judge to give a person up to one year in jail. The law does not allow a person convicted of this crime to go to prison. There is also no mandatory amount of incarceration called for under Michigan law. 

What Is Shoplifting?

For a prosecutor to prove the charge of shoplifting several elements must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

  • The prosecutor must prove that the defendant took control of the property a store offered for sale.
  • The Prosecutor must show that the defendant moved the property.
  • The Prosecutor must prove the collective value of the property in question.
  • The Prosecutor must prove the defendant intended to steal the property.
 

If the Prosecutor can prove the value of the property stolen was $1,000 or more, the charge is first degree retail fraud which is a felony. The defendant can receive a prison sentence.  If the value was $200 or more but less than $1,000 the offense is second degree retail fraud.  This is a misdemeanor and is punishable by a maximum sentence of 1 year in jail. Finally, if the value is less than $200, the offense is Retail Fraud in the third degree which is punishable by 93 days in jail.

In Grand Rapids, shoplifting is classified under Michigan law as a larceny crime, known as retail fraud.

Shoplifting is defined as removing or altering price tags, stealing a product from a store that is open for business from the public, and attempting to receive or exchange for merchandise that was not purchased, while having the intent to deceive the store.

Shoplifting is a crime that far too many people do not take serious. Shoplifting is also a crime were many people are wrongly accused and convicted.  These wrongful convictions cause a person to suffer punishment that was not necessary.  Grand Rapids prosecutors are cracking down hard on people charged with shoplifting. You need to work with a top notch criminal defense attorney in Grand Rapids, Michigan to help you get the best results possible.  Our defense lawyers have defended all varieties of shoplifting and retail fraud cases all across West Michigan. We have gotten our clients amazing results and we will work hard to get these same results for your if you are charged with shoplifting or retail fraud. 

A conviction for shoplifting in Grand Rapids can be punished with both fines and jail time. Additionally, individuals that are convicted of shoplifting are often sued in civil court by the store. These reasons make it crystal clear that a person in Grand Rapids who is charged with shoplifting needs to contact a tough criminal defense attorney like Shawn Haff today at 616-438-6719. 

Retail Fraud is the legal term for shoplifting

Will I Have To Do Jail Time For My Retail Fraud Charges?

We get asked this question all the time during consultation with potential clients in retail fraud cases. The answer to this question is complex and dependent on many factors but the vast majority of the time The Criminal Defense Law Center of West Michigan keep their clients from doing any jail or prison time in retail fraud cases.

When you first call us, we will want to know about your past, and if you have a criminal record. From there, we will want to know where this happened and who was involved. Next, we will order all of the police reports and evidence in your case.  We will try to track down any video and audio and if necessary will get a private investigator to help build your various defenses. We will try to win your case with a dismissal or by getting a not guilty verdict at trial. If those are your best options, we will work on getting our clients the best plea deal possible.

No matter what type of computer fraud you are being investigated for or have been charged with, our our defense attorneys can assist you through the process. By fighting the prosecution at every turn, we can help to minimize the consequences you face and will strive to have your charges eliminated. Whether you are facing accusations of computer fraud, health care fraud, business fraud, insurance fraud or retail fraud, you can rely on our experience.

 

Defenses To Retail Fraud And Shoplifting In Michigan

The vast majority of shopping malls and franchise stores have full time employees called loss prevention detectives. These people are well trained to prevent the theft of the stores property. They use the latest technology out there such as cameras, theft detection devices and more to help the store lower the costs associated with retail fraud. Even with all this training, mistakes are till made and people are falsely accused of theft. There are instances of false identification, cultural issues, procedural errors and misinterpreting the situation.  All of these things can lead to getting an acquittal, getting a dismissal or getting a great result for you!

Attorney Shawn Haff will gather all the discovery materials to provide you with the best possible defense. These materials include a police report, any loss prevention reports that can be gathered, videos, videos from the police, any photographs that can be found and statements from witnesses. 

In some cases getting our clients the best results possible is achieved through a plea bargain. This plea agreement can lead to the prosecution dismissing the case or by getting an agreement with the Judge, called a Cobbs agreement. 

Make a smart decision when it comes to defending yourself against retail fraud and shoplifting charges in Grand Rapids, Michigan. You need to hire the best criminal defense lawyer you can in order to give yourself the best results possible.  A conviction for shoplifting is going to impact a person’s life in a very negative way. It will be much tougher to get a job with a shoplifting conviction on your record. It will be much tougher to establish a career with a retail fraud conviction on your record.  Employers do not want to take a chance many times be hiring a person who has a conviction stealing on their record. When you are charged with crimes dealing with theft and stealing, make up a great choice and retain lawyer Shawn James Haff to represent you.  Shawn will fight for your rights and has over ten years experience defending clients in all West Michigan court rooms. Shawn knows your future is on the line when you have been arrested for stealing. Hire a lawyer who will passionately examine every possible defense to your shoplifting charge in order to get you the best results possible! Call Shawn now at 616-438-6719 to hire the best shoplifting defense lawyer in Grand Rapids!

   Grand Rapids Retail Fraud And Shoplifting Defense Lawyers.

While being charged with a crime is always stressful, there are few circumstances as damaging and embarrassing as being called a thief. A person who is convicted of Retail Fraud or shoplifting — even if it was an accident or a one time lack of judgment — will be labeled as a thief. 

Store managers’ are tired of losing money and therefore are determined to stop shoplifting and retail fraud. This determination means a vast amount of people have become victims of an over-zealous justice system that believes in arresting first and worrying about guilt or innocense later on.  Having this type of conviction on a person’s record permanently damages their reputation. A damaged reputation will prevent this person from getting jobs, homes, or even voting in the future. If you are a victim of this tragic situation, you need to call Shawn now and get in touch with the best Grand Rapids retail fraud defense attorney in town.  Shawn is determined to stand up for you so that you get a powerful criminal defense lawyer on your side. 

When it comes to shoplifting and retail fraud, Shawn has heard many people tell their sad stories of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Many innocent or well-meaning people end up in this terrible situation. Store managers and storeowners will not listen to the rational stories people have about their innocense.  These people have to be made an example of according to store owners because of how much money businesses lose from theft. Shawn believes your story needs to be heard and will present powerful evidence prove your innocense. Do not face retail fraud, shoplifting or theft charges by yourself. Call Shawn now at 616-438-6719. 

Case Results For Retail Fraud and Shoplifting Charges In Grand Rapids, Michigan

2019

Our Client was sentenced under HYTA and walked away without a criminal record for shoplifting at the circuit court in Grand Rapids, Michigan 

2020

Our client walked away with a delayed sentence. This allowed our client to complete probation without a criminal record for retail fraud.  

2021

We worked hard for our client and got the retail fraud charges dismissed by a tough local prosecutor at the Grand Rapids, Michigan district court. 

2022

Thanks to lawyer Shawn Haff’s work, our client was able to get a shoplifting charge dropped. 

Grand Rapids Shoplifting Lawyer

If a person gets caught stealing from a store or attempting to steal items from a store they can expect to face shoplifting charges. These charges will lead to criminal punishment. Far too often, a person that a store employee considers to be suspicious can get in trouble for simply moving an item or carrying a product.  Depending on how expensivie the item is, the defendant can be accused of 1st, 2nd, or 3rd degree retail fraud. These charges can lead to jail time, probation and a criminal record. 

Call Shawn Haff right away if you have been accused of shoplifting or retail fraud right away!  Shawn has worked in Grand Rapids for over 13 years and know the judges and courts you will face if charged with shoplifting.  Call Shawn now at 616-438-6719 to learn how to prortect yourself against tough judges and possible jail time. 

"When I needed help, Shawn assured me I would be ok. He explained the criminal process to me and got me outstanding results. I will use him again if I ever need his outstanding legal services. Thanks so much!"
Christy F.
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Criminal Defense Law Center West Michigan

Attorney Shawn Haff
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