Clearwater Shoplifting Attorney

Facing a Shoplifting Charge in Clearwater

Being accused of shoplifting can feel overwhelming and humiliating. What may seem like a misunderstanding, a lapse in judgment, or an honest mistake can quickly turn into a criminal charge that threatens your record, your job, and your reputation.

At Tinny, Meyer & Piccarreto, P.A., we represent people accused of shoplifting and retail theft in this area and throughout Pinellas County. Our attorneys are former prosecutors with over 35 years of combined criminal law experience, and we understand how seriously these cases can impact your life. We treat each case with the personal attention it deserves, and we work to help you move forward with as little long-term damage as possible.

A shoplifting charge does not automatically mean a conviction. You have rights, and we are here to protect them. Call (727) 245-9009 to speak with our team about your shoplifting case.

Why Choose Our Theft Defense Team

When you are dealing with a shoplifting accusation, the lawyer you choose can shape how the case is handled from the beginning. Our attorneys at Tinny, Meyer & Piccarreto, P.A. have served as prosecutors in Florida, so we know how the State Attorney's Office reviews retail theft files, evaluates evidence, and decides what to offer in plea discussions. That perspective helps us anticipate how your case may be approached and what issues may matter most.

With more than 35 years of combined experience in criminal courts, we have handled a wide range of theft and shoplifting cases. We understand how store security reports, video footage, witness statements, and alleged confessions are used in these cases. We use that knowledge to look for weaknesses in the evidence and to identify opportunities for a more favorable resolution, when the facts and your history allow.

We also know that no two clients are alike. Some are students worried about school, some are working professionals afraid of losing a career, and some are parents worried about immigration or housing. We take time to understand your background, your goals, and your concerns so we can tailor our approach to what matters most to you. Our team strives to provide clear communication, so you know what is happening and why at each stage.

Discretion is also a priority. Many clients feel ashamed or fear that friends, employers, or family members will learn about the accusation. We conduct our work with professionalism and care, and we treat your situation with the respect and privacy it deserves. If you are looking for a shoplifting lawyer Clearwater who takes your future seriously, our firm is prepared to help.

What Is Shoplifting Under Florida Law?

Under Florida law, shoplifting is generally prosecuted as retail theft or theft under Florida Statute 812.014. A person commits theft if they knowingly obtain or use, or attempt to obtain or use, another person’s property with the intent to:

• Temporarily or permanently deprive the owner of their property
• Appropriate the property for their own use or someone else’s use

Retail theft can include:

• Taking merchandise without paying
• Switching price tags or altering labels
• Concealing merchandise inside bags or clothing
• Transferring items between containers
• Attempting to leave the store without completing payment

The key element in any shoplifting case in Clearwater is intent. The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you intended to steal the merchandise.

Shoplifting Charges: Misdemeanor vs. Felony

Many people assume shoplifting is always a minor offense. That is not true. Depending on the value of the property involved, a shoplifting charge can range from a misdemeanor to a felony.

Petit Theft (Misdemeanor)

If the value of the property allegedly taken is less than $750, the offense is typically charged as petit theft under Florida law. While considered a misdemeanor, the penalties can still be serious and depend on the value involved and any prior theft history.

Petit theft may be charged as:

• Second-Degree Misdemeanor: Applies when the value of the property is under $100. Punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine.
• First-Degree Misdemeanor: Applies when the value is between $100 and $750, or if the accused has a prior theft conviction. Punishable by up to 1 year in jail and a $1,000 fine.

Importantly, a third theft conviction can be enhanced to a third-degree felony, exposing a person to up to five years in prison.

Even though petit theft is classified as a misdemeanor, a conviction can result in a permanent criminal record, potentially affecting employment, professional licensing, housing opportunities, and future background checks. In retail theft cases, stores may also pursue civil restitution demands in addition to the criminal case.

Grand Theft (Felony)

If the value of the alleged property is $750 or more, the offense may be charged as grand theft, a felony under Florida Statute 812.014. Certain items — such as firearms, motor vehicles, stop signs, or commercially farmed animals — may qualify as grand theft regardless of their value.

Grand theft charges are divided into degrees based primarily on the value of the property:

• Third-Degree Felony: Property valued between $750 and $20,000, punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
• Second-Degree Felony: Property valued between $20,000 and $100,000, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
• First-Degree Felony: Property valued at $100,000 or more, punishable by up to 30 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.

In addition to incarceration and fines, a felony conviction may result in probation, restitution to the alleged victim, driver’s license suspension (in some vehicle-related cases), and a permanent felony record that can significantly impact employment, housing, and civil rights.

If you are facing felony shoplifting or grand theft charges in Clearwater, seeking immediate legal representation is essential to protect your rights and explore all available defense strategies.

The Hidden Consequences of a Shoplifting Conviction

Shoplifting is considered a crime of dishonesty or “moral turpitude.” This classification can have long-term consequences beyond the courtroom.

A conviction may affect:

• Employment opportunities
• Professional licenses
• Background checks
• Housing applications
• College admissions
• Immigration status (for non-citizens)

Employers often view theft offenses as indicators of untrustworthiness. Even a misdemeanor conviction can make it harder to secure or maintain employment.

That is why working with an experienced Clearwater shoplifting lawyer is so important — your future is at stake.

What to Do After a Shoplifting Arrest Or Citation in Clearwater

The hours and days after a shoplifting incident can feel chaotic. You may have been stopped by loss prevention staff in a Clearwater store, questioned, and then turned over to the Clearwater Police Department or the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. You may have been taken to jail or given a notice to appear at the Pinellas County Justice Center for a future date. Knowing what to do now can help protect your rights.

Anything you say to store employees, police officers, or prosecutors can be used against you. Even if you want to explain what happened or clear up a misunderstanding, statements made without legal advice can limit your options later. You have the right to remain silent and the right to consult with a shoplifting criminal attorney Clearwater before answering questions about the incident.

It is also critical that you do not ignore any paperwork you received. Notices to appear, citations, and release forms usually list important dates and conditions. Missing a court date at the Pinellas County Justice Center can lead to a warrant and additional problems. Keeping everything organized and contacting a lawyer quickly gives you a better chance to address issues before they grow.

Right after a shoplifting arrest or citation, it can help to:

• Write down your memory of what happened, including times, locations, and who spoke to you.
• Save any documents, receipts, or photos related to the incident in a safe place.
• Avoid talking about the case on social media or by text, and do not share details with anyone except your attorney.
• Respect any conditions of release, such as no return to a specific store, to avoid new problems.
• Contact our office promptly so we can review the situation and discuss a plan for your first court date.

When you reach out to our team, we can review your documents, explain the meaning of the charges, and talk with you about what to expect as the case moves forward. Our goal is to reduce your anxiety by giving you a clear picture of the process and how we can assist.

Common Defenses to Shoplifting Charges

At Tinny, Meyer & Piccarreto, P.A., we carefully review every detail of your case. Remember: the burden of proof is on the prosecution. They must prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt.

Common defenses in Clearwater shoplifting cases may include:

Lack of Intent

Intent is critical. If you forgot to pay, were distracted, or misunderstood the situation, that may not constitute criminal intent.

Mistaken Identity

Retail stores are busy environments. Surveillance footage may be unclear or misinterpreted.

False Accusations

Store employees or witnesses may have made incorrect assumptions.

Lack of Evidence

If the State cannot prove value, ownership, or intent, the case may be weak.

Illegal Detention or Rights Violations

If your constitutional rights were violated during questioning or detention, certain evidence may be challenged.

Every case is unique. We develop a strategy tailored to your facts, your background, and your goals.

Why Choose Tinny, Meyer & Piccarreto, P.A.?

When facing a theft charge, experience matters. Our firm has extensive experience handling criminal defense cases throughout Clearwater and Pinellas County.

We offer:

• Strategic defense planning
• Detailed evidence review
• Clear communication
• Courtroom advocacy
• Negotiation experience with local prosecutors

We understand how the State Attorney’s Office evaluates retail theft cases. That insight helps us identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and pursue outcomes that limit long-term damage.

Our goal is to protect your record, your freedom, and your future.

Speak With a Clearwater Shoplifting Attorney Today

A shoplifting accusation does not define you. However, how you respond to the charge can significantly impact your future.

At Tinny, Meyer & Piccarreto, P.A., we provide aggressive and strategic criminal defense for clients in Clearwater and throughout Pinellas County. We understand what is at stake, and we are committed to protecting your rights every step of the way.

If you have been arrested or cited for retail theft or shoplifting, do not wait.

Contact Tinny, Meyer & Piccarreto, P.A. today at (727) 245-9009 to schedule a confidential consultation and begin building your defense.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I go to jail for shoplifting in Clearwater?

Jail is possible in shoplifting cases, but it is not automatic. The risk depends on factors like the value involved, your prior record, and how the judge and prosecutor view the case. We review these details with you and work to minimize the chance of incarceration whenever the law allows.

What happens at my first court date for shoplifting?

The first court date is usually an arraignment where the judge explains the charge, and you enter a plea. In Pinellas County, your case will typically be called at the Pinellas County Justice Center. Our attorneys can appear with you, protect your rights, and begin guiding the direction of the case.

Can a shoplifting charge stay off my record?

In some situations, there may be ways to reduce the long term impact of a shoplifting charge, but it depends on your history, the facts, and Florida law. We discuss realistic options with you, including whether you might qualify for any relief, and we design a strategy with your record in mind.

How soon should I contact a shoplifting lawyer?

You should contact a lawyer as soon as possible after an arrest or notice to appear. Early involvement allows us to review evidence, advise you before you speak with anyone about the case, and prepare for the first court date. Prompt action can help protect your rights from the start.

How will your firm keep my case private?

We treat every shoplifting case with discretion and professionalism. Our communications with you are confidential, and we are careful about how and with whom information is shared. We know clients worry about reputation and employment, and we structure our contact and case handling to respect your privacy.