Understand the allegation.
Many retail theft allegations involving merchandise valued at $300 or less are Class A misdemeanors. Prior convictions, how the offense is alleged, and other statutory circumstances can change the classification; motor fuel has a different threshold.
What a defense review may consider.
- Store video, receipts, and the sequence of events
- Evidence of intent and the value attributed to merchandise
- Loss-prevention reports and any statements attributed to you
Prepare for the next step.
Keep receipts, store correspondence, and your charging documents. A store's civil demand and a criminal prosecution are different matters; do not assume resolving one resolves the other.
The facts, your history, the available evidence, and the exact charge affect your options. These guides provide general information. An attorney must review the actual case before recommending a course of action.
720 ILCS 5/16-25 — Illinois General Assembly ↗
This guide covers misdemeanor allegations. Selected felony matters are considered separately. Statutes contain exceptions and enhancements. General information reviewed October 11, 2026; an attorney should verify current law as applied to your case.