West Palm Beach Civil Damages in Theft & Fraud Cases Lawyer

If you have committed an act of theft or fraud and have been caught engaging in this illicit activity, then you may be charged with either a misdemeanor or a felony. Theft and fraud criminals are also typically forced to pay damages to those affected by their actions. Despite the fact that in cases involving petit theft, shoplifting, or retail theft, the stolen items are usually returned, many establishments will still pursue damages from the thief.

If you have been charged with theft or fraud and are facing damages claims against you, a qualified and capable criminal defense attorney can help protect you from paying out undue money. Please contact the West Palm Beach civil damages in theft & fraud cases lawyers of Eric N. Klein & Associates, P.A. today at 561-353-2800 to speak with one of our experienced attorneys about your situation.

What are damages?

If you have been convicted of shoplifting or retail theft, then you may face demands from the affected retail establishment for damages. Damages are defined as monetary payment to an individual who has made a civil action claim against another party. Damages may be paid to compensate for direct monetary losses, for harm or injury, or they may be paid to serve as punishment to the individual at fault (nominal and punitive damages).

Retail Theft Cases

Many times, retail stores in Florida will make a demand for damages from shoplifters, even if the stolen property has been recollected on the store premises. Typically, after a shoplifter has been caught and his or her information has been collected, the following actions are taken:

• A hired law firm contacts the shoplifter and asks for a “civil penalty” of $200
• If the offender fails to respond within the 30-day payment period, damages will be sought
• After 45 days of no response, a second attempt at contact is made, typically with a $475 damages demand to be paid within the next 10 days
• If payment still has not been given after this period, the retail establishment may approach law enforcement officers to handle the case

Most stores will not follow through on their threats for damages after a retail theft or shoplifting case. If the situation does, in fact go to court, then the accused individual may be forced to pay the entirety of demanded damages. However, if the stolen property has already been returned, unharmed, then no damages have actually occurred, and this point may be used in court to defend oneself.

Contact Us

If you have been accused of theft or fraud and are facing damages claims against you, a West Palm Beach civil damages in theft & fraud cases lawyer from Eric N. Klein & Associates, P.A. can help you. Please call our offices today at 561-353-2800 to schedule a consultation.