Theft by Shoplifting Charges in the City of Atlanta and Dunwoody Municipal Courts

In the metro Atlanta area, I see the most people charged with Theft by Shoplifting in the Dunwoody and the City of Atlanta Municipal Courts. The Dunwoody Municipal Court, located at 4800 Ashford Dunwoody Rd, Dunwoody, GA 30338 charges a lot of people with shoplifting at Perimeter Mall, along with the local Walmarts and Targets in the area. The charges in the City of Atlanta Municipal Court, located at 150 Garnett Street, Atlanta, GA 30303 mainly arise from Lenox Mall, Phipps, and Atlantic Station.

Theft by Shoplifting occurs any time someone takes retail merchandise from a store. If the amount taken is under $500, it is a misdemeanor offense under Georgia law. If the amount is $500 or more, you can be charged with a felony. Since the municipal courts to not have jurisdiction to handle felony offenses, sometimes the police officer will charge you with a criminal city ordinance violation like disorderly conduct in order to keep the case in municipal court. I see that a lot in the Cities of Dunwoody and Sandy Springs.

There are usually a few ways to favorably resolve shoplifting cases, especially if this is your first lifetime arrest. Shoplifting, and all theft charges, can make it very difficult to secure employment if they are on your criminal history. Also, potential employers may look at the clerk’s offices of local jurisdictions searching for charges. It is important to have an attorney who will do anything to try and get your case sealed in the clerk’s office as well. While that is not available in every situation, an experienced attorney will be able to help you get the best possible outcome.

If you have been charged with Theft by Shoplifting in Atlanta, Dunwoody, Sandy Springs, Smyrna, Marietta, Cobb, Roswell, Johns Creek, or Alpharetta; or just have questions about the charge of Theft by Shoplifting, call me at 678-753-6431, and I’lll be happy to answer your questions.