Retail Fraud Defense in Michigan: Shoplifting at Target

Helping clients charged with shoplifting in Michigan

​Imagine being a first-time offender charged with retail fraud for shoplifting at Target. For Emily, a 28-year-old professional from Detroit, that’s exactly what happened. She found herself in a difficult situation after impulsively stealing a small item valued at under $200. Charged with Retail Fraud in the Third Degree, Emily felt ashamed and worried about how this could impact her career.

Attorney Jonathan Paul helped Emily by taking an empathetic approach to her defense. He understood that this single mistake didn’t define her as a person. In Michigan, retail fraud is a serious crime, and the prosecution must prove that the defendant intended to steal and moved the item within the store. Jonathan carefully reviewed the evidence and worked to have the charges reduced by highlighting Emily’s clean record and her willingness to participate in a diversion program. Thanks to his compassionate representation, Emily was able to avoid a conviction and keep the incident off her record, allowing her to continue with her life and career.