Facing a Shoplifting Charge? Our Massachusetts Defense Attorney Is Prepared to Defend Your Rights
If you’ve been charged with shoplifting in Massachusetts, it’s important to act quickly—and to have an experienced defense attorney in your corner. The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson is a trusted criminal defense law firm with offices in Boston and Salem, serving clients throughout Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk Counties. Our legal team includes aggressive criminal defense attorneys and a former prosecutor who brings a deep understanding of how these cases are prosecuted. Whether you were arrested in Boston, Brighton, West Roxbury, Chelsea, Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, Saugus, Cambridge, Somerville, Newton, Brookline, Dedham, or Quincy, or any nearby city or town, we’re prepared to protect your rights and your future.
Shoplifting Charges in Massachusetts: What You Need to Know
Under Massachusetts law, shoplifting falls under the broader category of theft and property crime. According to Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 266, Section 30A, shoplifting includes actions like:
- Taking merchandise without paying
- Concealing goods with the intent to steal
- Changing or removing price tags
- Transferring merchandise to different containers
Shoplifting can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the value of the stolen items and whether the accused has any prior offenses. For example:
- If the value of the stolen property is under $250 and it’s a first offense, the penalty may include a fine of up to $250.
- For second or third offenses, or if the value exceeds $250, the consequences can include jail time, higher fines, and a permanent criminal record.
It’s important to understand that a shoplifting charge—even for something minor—can have long-term impacts on your employment, education, housing, and immigration status. That’s why working with a skilled Massachusetts criminal defense attorney is critical.
How Our Criminal Defense Law Firm Can Help
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, our goal is to reduce or eliminate the penalties you face. We take every case seriously and examine all the facts and evidence to develop a strong legal strategy. Our team uses its experience, including former prosecutorial insight, to anticipate how the case may be handled in court. This helps us provide clear guidance and proactive representation.
We regularly represent clients accused of shoplifting in, but not limited to following areas:
- Suffolk County – Boston, Brighton, Chelsea, West Roxbury
- Essex County – Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, Saugus
- Middlesex County – Cambridge, Somerville, Newton
- Norfolk County – Brookline, Dedham, Quincy
Our criminal defense attorneys are familiar with the local courts, prosecutors, and procedures across these counties, which enables us to provide efficient and focused representation for every client.
Shoplifting Defense Strategies
Every case is different, but some common defenses for shoplifting charges may include:
- Lack of intent: The prosecution must prove you intended to steal.
- Mistaken identity: Security footage or eyewitness accounts may be unreliable.
- Procedural errors: If law enforcement violated your rights during the investigation or arrest, key evidence may be excluded.
Our aggressive criminal defense attorneys will evaluate every aspect of your case—from the moment of arrest to how evidence was collected—to protect your rights and your future.
Why Choose the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson?
Choosing the right defense attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Our criminal defense law firm is recognized throughout Massachusetts for providing client-centered legal representation and strategic defense planning. We take each case personally; we don’t just manage them. Our team is prepared to:
- Communicate clearly with you about your options
- Represent you assertively in court
- Work to minimize or dismiss the charges whenever possible
- Help you understand every step of the legal process
We understand what’s at stake, and we are ready to act quickly and effectively to help you move forward.
Contact Us to Set Up a Strategy Session Today
If you or someone you know has been charged with shoplifting in Massachusetts, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson provides aggressive and personalized legal representation tailored to your case. Whether you’re in Boston, Salem, or surrounding communities, our team is ready to stand with you in court and help protect your future. Contact us now to set up a strategy session and discuss your next steps with a knowledgeable Massachusetts criminal defense attorney.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is shoplifting considered a felony in Massachusetts?
Yes, shoplifting can be charged as a felony if the value of the stolen items exceeds $1,200 or if the individual has prior theft convictions. The penalties are more severe, including potential prison time.
What should I do if I’m accused of shoplifting?
Do not speak to store employees, police officers, or prosecutors without a defense attorney present. Contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to begin protecting your rights.
Can shoplifting charges be dismissed?
Yes, in some cases, charges can be dismissed if there is insufficient evidence, procedural errors, or successful completion of a diversion program. Your defense attorney can help explore these options.
Will shoplifting go on my permanent record in Massachusetts?
A conviction will appear on your criminal record. However, depending on the outcome of your case, it may be possible to seek sealing of your record in the future.
How can a defense attorney help with my shoplifting case?
A Massachusetts defense attorney can negotiate with prosecutors, challenge the evidence, and present legal defenses that may lead to reduced charges or a full dismissal.