Home Depot is a large store that caters to people who want to improve their homes. They sell everything from flooring to appliances, and tools. If you are caught stealing from Home Depot, the charges are going to be severe. If you were caught stealing from Home Depot in Orlando, you will face a criminal record that could haunt you for the rest of your life. Punishments may even include jail time. These consequences can affect both you and your family. If you have loved ones that depend on you, then you do not want to be in jail when they need you the most.
People make mistakes all the time. For some, stealing may be the only option they see. People may steal items that they need but cannot afford for their home, or the tools that they need to work and provide for their families. Though stealing does not make you a bad person, it is still illegal. The Umansky Law Firm looks deeply into the circumstances surrounding the situation and can work to fight for the best possible outcome.
Large chains such as Home Depot often have high tech security systems and security guards in place throughout the store to deter shoplifting. When a Home Depot employee suspects you of stealing, they typically wait until you leave the store to confront you. Once detained, security will hold you at the store until the police arrive. During this time a store employee may attempt to ask you questions, but it’s imperative that you maintain your silence until your lawyer is present.
After the police arrive they will take you into custody. You will be held in jail until you either post bail or see a judge. Even if they do not take you to jail they will issue you a notice or summons to appear in court to see the Judge. During this process, it’s crucial to contact an experienced theft lawyer that has the knowledge and expertise to handle your case.
Home Depot carries hundreds of different products with varying price tags, which means the consequences for stealing may vary. Penalties range from monetary fines to years of incarceration. It’s important to understand the potential consequences of shoplifting before your trial.
Florida Statute § 812.014 defines shoplifting penalties as follows:
Your penalties may change depending on whether you were working with another person. Regardless of the amount either of you steals, the prosecutor will combine the total amount stolen from both of you to determine your sentence. For example, if you only steal $50 worth of goods, but your partner takes $150, the total is $200 and you can be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor.
To ensure that you understand your rights and the charges you are facing, contact a lawyer immediately. With the help of your attorney, you may be able to get your charges reduced or even dropped. A lawyer that knows how to properly handle theft cases will be the key to ensuring a positive outcome for you.
Facing shoplifting charges is scary and overwhelming. Don’t let one mistake ruin your future. You can use this experience as a learning opportunity and hire a top Orlando criminal defense attorney that will work hard to help you. A good criminal defense lawyer will sit down and talk to you to offer reputable legal advice. With over a hundred years of experience between our attorneys, we’re prepared to take any case.
You deserve a second chance as much as everyone else, and The Umansky Law Firm can help you turn a potentially life-changing experience into a simple lapse of judgment. You need someone on your side, and our firm is here to help. Contact our office to learn more about our experienced attorneys.
The Umansky Law Firm Criminal Defense & Injury Attorneys
