Cook County Retail Theft Attorney

Schaumburg, Illinois Retail Theft and Shoplifting Defense Attorney

Charges of retail theft, also known as shoplifting, are very serious in the State of Illinois. These offenses can carry stiff penalties and a host of other consequences. Hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney is essential to protecting your rights, your freedom and your reputation. A former prosecutor, Attorney Christopher M. Cosley is experienced in handling a wide variety of criminal defense cases including retail theft and shoplifting. He uses his experience as a former Assistant State’s Attorney to benefit his clients and aggressively defend their rights.

Experienced Defense for Misdemeanor and Felony Charges in Cook County

Charges for theft and shoplifting depend on the value of the item that is stolen and the past criminal history of the defendant. An individual can be charged with a simple misdemeanor or a felony. (In Illinois, theft of items worth more than $150 can be charged as felonies). In some cases, prosecutors will charge a defendant with both a misdemeanor and a felony. A conviction for either charge can result in jail time. Additionally, a conviction can also incur a fine of $2,500.

Convictions for theft also carry consequences that can negatively affect your life for years to come. They can affect your ability to find a job, get a loan, rent an apartment and even obtain a professional license. Our firm understands the stakes and employs all available resources to mount a strong defense. Wherever possible, we work to have charges reduced or dismissed, and we pursue all options to prevent a conviction on our clients’ records.

If you or a loved one has been charged with retail theft or shoplifting, contact the Law Offices of Christopher M. Cosley in Arlington Heights to schedule a free consultation. We offer zealous representation for both juveniles and adults throughout the greater Chicago area including Rolling Meadows, Palatine, Schaumburg, Hoffman Estates, Barrington, South Barrington, Des Plaines, Hanover Park, Rosemont, Mount Prospect, Elk Grove, Streamwood, and Schiller Park.