Memphis Shoplifting Lawyer

25+ Years of Criminal Experience On Your Side

If you have been accused of shoplifting in Memphis, you may be worried about your job, your family, and your future. An arrest or citation for retail theft can feel devastating, especially if you have never been in trouble before. At Francavilla Law Firm, we help people in this situation find a path forward.

Our Memphis shoplifting attorneys bring more than 25 years of legal experience to every criminal case. We know how shoplifting accusations are handled in local courts, and we understand the stress that comes with a pending charge. We take time to listen, explain the process, and discuss options so you are not left guessing about what comes next.

From our office in the Memphis area, we represent clients throughout Shelby County, as well as nearby communities. If you are facing a shoplifting charge and do not know where to turn, we are prepared to talk with you about your situation and the steps you can take to protect your future.

Schedule a consultation with Francavilla Law Firm today by calling (901) 979-9992 or contacting us online.

Why Work With Francavilla Law Firm in Memphis?

Choosing the right lawyer for a criminal offense is one of the most important decisions you will make after an arrest. When you work with Francavilla Law Firm, you do not get rushed conversations or generic advice. We focus on one-on-one representation, which means we get to know you as a person and not just as a case number.

Attorney Tim Francavilla has practiced law for more than 25 years. During that time, he has handled a wide range of criminal matters and has seen how a single allegation can affect a person’s work, education, and family relationships. This depth of experience helps us anticipate issues, explain realistic outcomes, and prepare you for what is likely to happen in court.

The team at Francavilla Law Firm is committed to respectful, judgment-free representation. Many clients feel embarrassed after a shoplifting arrest, especially if it is their first experience with the criminal system. Our role is not to lecture you but to understand what happened, explain your options, and help you make informed choices about how to move forward.

What To Do After A Shoplifting Charge in Shelby County

The moments after a shoplifting accusation can be confusing. You might receive a citation, be taken to a local jail, or be told to appear in court on a specific date. Knowing what to do during this time can make a real difference in how your case unfolds.

Our shoplifting lawyers in Memphis recommend the following after an arrest:

• Keep Documentation: This can include a citation, booking information, bond paperwork, or any notice telling you when and where to appear. Missing a court date can create additional problems, so it is important to mark those dates on your calendar and plan to attend.
• Be careful about what you say and where you say it: It can be tempting to explain yourself to store employees, loss prevention staff, or friends online. Those conversations can sometimes be misunderstood or used against you later. Before you talk about the details of the incident, it is wise to discuss it with your lawyer for trusted and clear guidance.
• Note What Happened: It helps to write down your own account of what happened while it is still fresh in your mind. Include where you were, who you were with, and what you remember about your interactions with store staff or police. These notes can help you remember important details later when you speak with our team.
• Consult an Attorney Sooner Than Later: Consider contacting our office as soon as possible after the incident. Early conversations give us more time to review your documents, understand your goals, and talk through options with you. When you call, we can discuss what has already happened and what your next court date might involve.

Understanding Shoplifting Charges & Penalties in Shelby County

Shoplifting allegations are usually treated as a form of theft. The value of the property involved and your prior record can affect how serious the charge is and what penalties you might face. Even when the dollar amount seems small, a conviction can still carry consequences that reach far beyond any fine.

Possible penalties for shoplifting in Memphis may include:

• Fines
• Court costs
• Probation
• Time in jail

The specific penalties that apply in a shoplifting case generally depend on factors such as the value of the items, whether there are prior theft offenses, and the unique circumstances of the offense. Judges also consider how seriously the accused appears to take the process follows instructions.

How Will a Shoplifting Offense Impact My Life?

One of the most serious concerns about a shoplifting arrest is the impact it will have on your record. A theft-related conviction can appear on background checks that employers, landlords, and schools often use. This can affect job opportunities, housing applications, and professional licensing. Non-citizens should also understand that criminal charges can sometimes affect immigration matters, and they may wish to discuss that concern with appropriate counsel.

At the same time, not every case leads to the same outcome. Depending on the situation, there may be ways to address a shoplifting charge that focus more on personal accountability and moving forward, rather than harsh punishment. Our job at Francavilla Law Firm is to explain the range of possibilities in clear language, discuss what may be realistic in Shelby County criminal court, and help you decide how you want to approach your case.

How We Approach Shoplifting Defense in Memphis

When you come to Francavilla Law Firm for help with a shoplifting offense in Memphis, we start by listening. We want to understand what led to the accusation, what you remember about the incident, and what you hope to avoid in the future. That conversation helps us see you as a whole person, not just as a set of charges.

After we talk with you, we will review the available information. This can include police reports, any store incident reports, and your own notes about what happened. We look at how the events are described, when key moments occurred, and whether anything appears unclear or incomplete. Our goal is to understand both the strengths and the weaknesses in the state’s version of events.

Our team considers all possible legal issues in your case, the practical realities of criminal courts in Shelby County, and your personal goals. We then walk you through potential paths, such as negotiating a reduced sentence, asserting defenses in court, or other lawful options that may be available.

Throughout this process, communication is central. We explain hearing dates, court procedures, and possible next steps in everyday language so you can follow along and ask questions. When decisions need to be made, we discuss the pros and cons with you. Our goal is to help protect your record and your future as much as possible within the boundaries of the law and the facts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a shoplifting charge go on my record?

A shoplifting charge can appear on your record, especially if it leads to a conviction. How it shows up and for how long can depend on the specific charge and outcome. We can review your situation, explain what is at stake, and discuss options that may help protect your future.

Do I really need a lawyer for first-time shoplifting?

Even a first-time shoplifting case can have long-term consequences, so having a lawyer can be very important. We help you understand the risks, what the court will consider, and what choices you have. With over 25 years of experience, we guide you through each step of the process.

How will your firm keep me informed?

We focus on clear and consistent communication. Our team talks with you about upcoming court dates, explains what happened after each hearing, and answers your questions along the way. You are not left to figure things out alone or wonder what is happening with your case.

Will you judge me for what happened?

No. People come to us during some of the hardest moments of their lives. Our role is to provide legal guidance, not to judge. We treat you with respect, listen to your concerns, and work with you to plan a way forward that fits your circumstances.

When should I contact you about my case?

It is generally best to contact us as soon as you know about a charge or upcoming court date. Early conversations give us more time to review your paperwork, understand what happened, and discuss options with you. You do not have to wait until the last minute to get guidance.

Talk With Our Memphis Shoplifting Lawyer Today!

A shoplifting accusation is serious, but it does not have to define the rest of your life. With the right information and support, you can face the charge in a thoughtful way instead of reacting out of fear. Our team is here to help you take that next step.

At Francavilla Law Firm, we bring more than 25 years of criminal defense experience, a Memphis-based practice, and a commitment to treating every client as an individual. When you contact us, we talk with you about what happened, what you are worried about, and what your upcoming court dates may involve, then we discuss how we can help.

You do not have to navigate this situation on your own. Reach out so we can talk about your shoplifting charge and how to move forward.

Call (901) 979-9992 to speak with a Memphis shoplifting attorney about your arrest today!