Rock Hill Shoplifting Defense Attorney

Here’s How We Can Help

Being accused of shoplifting is a stressful and intimidating experience, and a conviction can lead to fines, jail time, and a permanent criminal record that affects your job, housing, and more. At Barboza Law, we understand the stakes and are here to stand by your side. Whether the accusation is a misunderstanding, an error, a case of mistaken identity, or a situation where we need to focus on limiting penalties, our experienced attorneys will fight to get you the best outcome. 

Understanding South Carolina Shoplifting Laws

Shoplifting is taken seriously under South Carolina law. It involves actions like:

• Taking merchandise without paying.
• Switching price tags to pay less.
• Using a device to avoid paying for an item.

Depending on the value of the items involved, shoplifting can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony:

• Misdemeanor: For items valued at $2,000 or less, penalties can include fines and jail time of up to 30 days.
• Felony: For items over $2,000, consequences can include larger fines and prison sentences of up to 10 years.

A conviction could also leave you with a criminal record, affecting job opportunities, housing, and other areas of your life. That’s why having an experienced attorney by your side is critical.

Defending Against Shoplifting Charges

At Barboza Law, we know that every case is unique, and we’ll listen to you and let you know your best options. Common defenses we may use include:

• Lack of Intent: Shoplifting requires intent. If the item was taken by mistake or you intended to pay for it, we’ll work to prove that intent wasn’t present.
• Mistaken Identity: If surveillance footage or eyewitness testimony is unreliable, we’ll challenge its accuracy to show you weren’t involved.
• Procedural Errors: Law enforcement must follow strict procedures when handling evidence or arrests. Any mistakes can weaken the prosecution’s case.
• Coercion or Duress: If someone forced or pressured you into taking the item, we can present this as a defense.
• Insufficient Evidence: If the evidence against you is weak or circumstantial, we’ll argue that the prosecution hasn’t met the burden of proof.

Our job is to examine every detail of your case to uncover weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence and fight for the best possible outcome, whether that’s a dismissal, reduced charges, or alternative penalties like diversionary programs.

How Barboza Law Can Help You 

At Barboza Law, we focus on providing personalized, strategic legal representation to clients in Rock Hill, Lancaster, and surrounding areas. Here’s what we do to protect you:

• Investigate the Case: We thoroughly examine the evidence, including surveillance footage, witness statements, and police reports, to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
• Build a Strong Defense: We explore all possible defenses, like proving a lack of intent, mistaken identity, or procedural errors by law enforcement.
• Negotiate with Prosecutors: In many cases, we can work to reduce charges or secure alternative penalties, like community service or diversionary programs, to avoid a conviction.
• Advocate in Court: If your case goes to trial, we will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and present a compelling defense on your behalf.

Don’t Leave Your Future to Chance, Contact Barboza Law Today

Shoplifting accusations are serious, but with the right defense, you can protect your future. If you’re facing charges in Rock Hill or Lancaster, SC, don’t face them alone. Call Barboza Law now to schedule a consultation. Let us fight for your rights and help you move forward.