From a shoplifting misunderstanding to a grand theft accusation—any theft charge in Tennessee can threaten your reputation, your freedom, and your future. At Harvey Criminal Defense Lawyers, our Memphis theft attorneys understand what’s at stake and how to protect you at every stage of the legal process.
Tennessee’s theft laws aren’t limited to just stealing physical items. The law casts a wide net—criminalizing everything from traditional larceny to deceptive service use and receiving stolen property. Whether you’re accused of swiping an item from a shelf or embezzling funds through a position of trust, you’re facing a charge that could haunt you for years.
Under Tennessee Code § 39-14-103, a person commits theft when they take property or services without the owner’s consent and intend to permanently deprive them of it. This applies to:
And yes—services count. You don’t have to walk out of a store with unpaid goods to be charged. Walking out on a restaurant tab, or even misusing a friend’s Netflix account in certain scenarios, could technically lead to theft charges.
Tennessee law classifies theft charges based on the value of what was stolen, ranging from misdemeanors to severe felonies with decades of prison time attached.
Even a misdemeanor leaves you with a permanent criminal record that could impact employment, housing, and education.
These aren’t just numbers—they’re real years of your life, money out of your pocket, and time away from your family, career, and goals.
Think shoplifting is a minor charge? Think again. Tennessee law treats retail theft as seriously as other forms of theft, with graduated penalties that escalate with prior offenses.
You can be charged with shoplifting for:
A fifth shoplifting offense within two years? That bumps a Class A misdemeanor up to a Class E felony—just like that. And that means real prison time. A minimum $300 fine is also mandatory.
Some stores may opt for a civil remedy instead of pressing criminal charges, especially if the item’s value is under $500. But that’s rare, and you still might end up owing triple damages if the store wins their case.
Tennessee allows alternative sentencing in some minor theft cases—like restitution payments, suspended sentences, or community-based programs. But these options are not automatic and depend on many factors, including:
For those with prior convictions, Tennessee’s enhancement laws kick in fast:
This means your past can—and will—come back to haunt you in a big way if you don’t have the right defense.
Don’t let a single mistake—or a false accusation—define the rest of your life. When you work with Harvey Criminal Defense Lawyers, you gain a strategic partner who knows:
We’ve successfully defended clients facing everything from $10 shoplifting charges to six-figure theft allegations. Our lawyers understand Memphis courts, prosecutors, and what it takes to fight back effectively.
Every theft case is different, but some of the most effective defenses include:
The sooner you get us involved, the more options we have to negotiate reduced charges, get your case dismissed, or win at trial.
Theft charges are personal. They suggest dishonesty, breach of trust, and moral failure—even before you’ve had a chance to explain yourself. That’s why we treat you with the dignity and respect you deserve.
We’re not here to judge. We’re here to fight.
You’re not just facing jail time. You’re facing the possibility of losing your job, your housing, your future. A theft conviction—even a misdemeanor—can follow you for years. That’s why your first call needs to be to a Memphis theft lawyer who understands how to protect your name, your record, and your freedom.
At Harvey Criminal Defense Lawyers, we’re relentless when it comes to defending your rights. We’ll analyze every detail, challenge the prosecution at every step, and fight for the best possible outcome.
Don’t go into this alone. Contact Harvey Criminal Defense Lawyers now to work with a seasoned Memphis theft attorney. Call us or fill out our secure form today.
Theft is a broad crime that includes stealing any property or services without the owner’s consent. Shoplifting is a specific type of theft involving retail merchandise—like concealing items, switching tags, or bypassing payment. In Tennessee, shoplifting carries the same penalties as other theft offenses based on the value stolen.
Yes, but it depends on the circumstances. A skilled Memphis theft lawyer may negotiate for dismissal through diversion programs, prove lack of intent, challenge the evidence, or uncover procedural errors by law enforcement. Early legal intervention greatly improves your chances.
It’s possible, but not guaranteed. Class A misdemeanor theft (under $1,000) can result in up to 11 months and 29 days in jail. However, Tennessee offers alternatives like probation, fines, or community service—especially for first-time offenders. Your attorney can fight to keep you out of jail.
Prior convictions can significantly increase penalties. Tennessee’s sentencing enhancements label repeat offenders as “multiple,” “persistent,” or “career” offenders—each triggering longer mandatory sentences. That’s why it’s critical to have a defense lawyer who knows how to navigate these enhancements.
Stay calm and do not talk to police or store investigators without a lawyer. False accusations can happen due to mistaken identity, surveillance errors, or store misunderstandings. Contact a Memphis theft lawyer immediately so they can begin investigating and building your defense.
The prosecutors are already building their case against you. Every day you wait is another day they get stronger.
But you don’t have to face this alone.
