Chicago Criminal Lawyer Blog
How a Simple Mistake Can Turn Into a Permanent Criminal Record
I have represented clients throughout Chicago—from the Loop to Lincoln Park—who thought a shoplifting charge would “blow over” on its own. Unfortunately, that’s rarely how it works. Under 720 ILCS 5/16-25, Illinois law treats retail theft as a serious criminal offense. Even a first-time arrest can carry jail exposure, fines, and a lifetime criminal record that employers and landlords can see. The worst mistake someone can make after being charged with shoplifting is assuming the case is too minor to need a lawyer.
Every retail theft case begins with an accusation that someone knowingly took or attempted to take merchandise without paying its full value. That can include concealing an item, swapping price tags, or walking past a register without payment. What many people don’t realize is that intent is the key legal element—and proving intent isn’t always straightforward. A distracted shopper or a person who makes a simple mistake can still be arrested, even when no theft was intended.
