Skip to content
If you’ve been charged with retail fraud in Marquette, the consequences can be serious. From fines and jail time to a criminal record that haunts your future, a conviction for shoplifting or theft can impact your career, education, and personal life. You need a Marquette retail fraud lawyer who understands Michigan’s criminal laws and has the courtroom experience to fight for your future.
At Andriacchi Law, we’ve been defending clients across Michigan for over 40 years. Our firm combines legal knowledge, trial experience, and compassion to give clients the defense they deserve.
What is Retail Fraud in Michigan?
Retail fraud, often referred to as shoplifting, is a theft-related offense that occurs when someone:
- Takes property from a retail store without paying
- Switches price tags to pay less
- Attempts to obtain a refund or exchange using stolen goods
Depending on the value of the stolen merchandise and prior convictions, you may be charged with:
- Retail Fraud Third Degree (misdemeanor, under $200)
- Retail Fraud Second Degree (misdemeanor, $200–$1,000)
- Retail Fraud First Degree (felony, over $1,000 or repeat offenses)
A Marquette criminal defense attorney who understands these distinctions can help you avoid the worst-case scenario.
Why Choose Andriacchi Law?
Decades of Proven Criminal Defense Experience
Andriacchi Law has been serving Michigan clients for more than four decades, defending people charged with everything from first-offense OWI to criminal sexual conduct in the first degree. We’ve taken many cases to trial and obtained not guilty verdicts on behalf of clients facing serious criminal accusations.
Recognized Leadership in the Legal Field
Dominic F. Andriacchi, Jr. is more than just a skilled trial lawyer — he’s a leader in the legal community. As an executive board member of the Criminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan (CDAM), he not only defends clients but also trains other criminal defense attorneys across the state in jury trial techniques.
Results That Matter
Clients consistently praise Andriacchi Law for reducing their anxiety, explaining the process clearly, and helping them feel calm and prepared. Whether your case results in a not guilty verdict, a dismissal, or a favorable plea deal, our goal is to fight for the best possible outcome for your situation.
Facing Retail Fraud Charges? Here’s What to Do
- Don’t speak to the police without legal counsel.
- Contact a Marquette retail fraud attorney immediately.
- Call Andriacchi Law today or visit our Ishpeming or Marquette Michigan Offices for immediate assistance for a free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your future.
What You Get When You Hire Us for Retail Fraud Defense
Discreet Criminal Defense Services
Being charged with retail fraud can be an embarrassing crime to be charged with. Also, if you’re a professional, like a medical doctor, nurse, social worker, etc., facing fraud charges, you might need to report a conviction to the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).
At Andriacchi Law, we believe in doing everything possible to keep your name out of the limelight and not discussing your case with others.
Not all criminal defense attorneys believe in that. Many times, we have been at the courthouse and heard lawyers talking about their clients behind closed doors. That’s not something we do here.
A Criminal Defense Lawyer Who Investigates Every Detail
We analyze surveillance footage, police reports, and witness statements to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. No stone is left unturned when it comes to protecting your rights and helping you.
We Know to Negotiate When It’s Smart
When appropriate, we seek dismissals or reduced charges to protect your record. This might include sentencing alternatives, potentially under MCL 771.1 (delay of sentence) or the Holmes Youthful Trainee Act (HYTA) MCL 762.11. Depending on the type of alternative, your record would stay or get clean after a probationary term.
Most Importantly, You Get a Lawyer Who Goes to Trial
If your case goes to trial, you can trust that you’re working with attorneys who’ve handled complex felony cases in front of a jury — and won.
Ask other so-called “criminal defense attorneys” how often they go to trial and win. It’s rare when any lawyers take cases to trial nowadays.
This isn’t our first retail fraud case, and it isn’t our first jury trial, either. Rest assured you have a lawyer with the knowledge, training, and skills needed to win when it counts.
Serving Marquette and Surrounding Areas
We proudly serve clients throughout the Upper Peninsula from our two convenient locations:
Learn More About Our Criminal Defense Services
Call Today for a Trusted Defense
Don’t face a retail fraud charge alone. With Andriacchi Law, you get decades of experience, trial-tested attorneys, and a team committed to your defense.
Call now or schedule a consultation online — the sooner you act, the better your options.