Shoplifting Attorney in Erie, PA, Providing Skilled Legal Representation for Individuals Facing Retail Theft and Shoplifting Charges Across Erie County
Retail theft, often referred to as shoplifting, is a serious criminal offense in Pennsylvania that can result in fines, jail time, and a lasting criminal record. Attorney Alan Natalie, an experienced Erie County retail theft lawyer, has spent more than 30 years defending individuals accused of theft and related offenses throughout Erie County: As a former assistant public defender, our criminal defense lawyer brings a deep understanding of Pennsylvania’s criminal justice system and uses his experience to build strong, strategic defenses for each client he represents.
A conviction for retail theft can have long-term consequences, impacting employment, housing, and educational opportunities. With a dedicated Erie County retail theft lawyer by your side, you can ensure that your rights are protected, your case is handled properly, and your future remains secure.
Understanding Retail Theft Charges in Pennsylvania
Under Pennsylvania law, retail theft occurs when an individual unlawfully takes merchandise from a store, alters a price tag, transfers goods into a different container, or attempts to pay less than the full retail value of an item. Even a first-time offense can lead to criminal penalties, while repeat convictions carry harsher consequences.
The severity of retail theft charges depends on several factors, including:
- The value of the merchandise taken
- Whether it is a first or subsequent offense
- The presence of aggravating factors, such as organized theft or theft using devices to avoid detection
An experienced shoplifting attorney in Erie, PA, understands how prosecutors build these cases and knows how to challenge evidence, question witness credibility, and identify procedural errors that could lead to reduced or dismissed charges.
Consequences of a Retail Theft Conviction
The penalties for retail theft in Pennsylvania vary based on the circumstances of the case:
- Summary offense: For a first offense involving merchandise valued under $150, punishable by fines and possible jail time.
- Misdemeanor: For repeat offenses or items valued between $150 and $999, punishable by up to two years in jail.
- Felony: For third or subsequent offenses or items valued at $1,000 or more, punishable by up to seven years in prison.
Beyond legal penalties, a retail theft conviction can have lasting personal and professional consequences. Employers, landlords, and licensing boards often view theft offenses as crimes of dishonesty. Working with an experienced Erie County retail theft lawyer can help protect your reputation and minimize the long-term impact of these charges.
How an Erie County Retail Theft Lawyer Can Help
Attorney Alan Natalie takes a thorough and strategic approach to every case. He carefully reviews the facts, examines police reports, and identifies weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. As a skilled retail theft lawyer, he explores all possible defenses, including lack of intent, mistaken identity, or violations of your constitutional rights during arrest or investigation.
For first-time offenders, the firm may also pursue diversionary programs such as Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD), which can result in the dismissal and eventual expungement of charges upon successful completion. This approach provides clients with the opportunity to move forward without a permanent criminal record.
Attorney Natalie’s background as the son of a high-ranking police officer gives him a balanced perspective, he understands how law enforcement operates while ensuring that his clients receive fair treatment under the law. His mission is to help clients rebuild their lives after an arrest through skilled negotiation, effective advocacy, and unwavering dedication.
Get Help from a Trusted Shoplifting Attorney in Erie, PA
If you’ve been accused of shoplifting or retail theft, don’t face the charges alone. Contact Alan Natalie, a knowledgeable shoplifting attorney in Erie, PA, for guidance and representation. With over three decades of experience handling theft-related cases, he has helped countless clients navigate the legal system and secure favorable outcomes.
Call 814-622-4511 or email the firm today to schedule a free consultation. The firm will review your case, explain your rights, and create a personalized defense strategy tailored to your unique situation. With a trusted Erie County retail theft lawyer on your side, you can take the first step toward protecting your freedom, reputation, and future.