Shoplifting Cases at the Elgin Branch Court

Shoplifting Charges at the Elgin Branch Court: What You Must Know

If you’ve been arrested or charged with shoplifting and your case is scheduled at the Elgin Branch Court, you are likely feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and unsure of what to do next. My name is James Dimeas, and as an experienced criminal defense attorney who regularly appears at the Elgin Branch Court, I can help you understand the legal process, defend your rights, and guide you toward the best possible outcome. I have successfully handled countless shoplifting cases in this courthouse and know how to deal with both Village Prosecutors and the Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office.

This page provides a comprehensive overview of what to expect with a shoplifting charge at the Elgin Branch Court and why hiring an experienced defense lawyer can make all the difference.

What Is the Elgin Branch Court?

The Elgin Branch Court is located at 150 Dexter Court in Elgin, Illinois. It is a satellite courthouse of the 16th Judicial Circuit of Kane County. This courthouse primarily handles:

• Misdemeanor criminal offenses
• Local ordinance violations
• Traffic cases
• Preliminary hearings in some felony cases

Shoplifting cases, legally referred to as Retail Theft under Illinois law, are one of the most commonly prosecuted crimes at the Elgin Branch Court. This court serves Elgin and nearby municipalities such as South Elgin, West Dundee, Carpentersville, East Dundee, and Gilberts.

Who Prosecutes Shoplifting Cases at the Elgin Branch Court?

One of the most important things to understand about the Elgin Branch Court is that not all cases are handled by the same prosecuting office.

1. Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office

If your alleged shoplifting incident occurred within the City of Elgin or if you have a prior criminal record, your case will likely be prosecuted by the Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office. They handle more serious Retail Theft cases, including:

• Class A Misdemeanors
• Felony Retail Theft (based on prior convictions or high-value merchandise)
• Cases involving aggravating factors like use of emergency exits or repeat offenses

These prosecutors are experienced, often less flexible, and focused on public safety, particularly when the defendant has a criminal history.

2. Village Prosecutors

If your shoplifting case arises from a smaller municipality such as South Elgin or West Dundee, it may be prosecuted by a Village Prosecutor. These prosecutors are often private attorneys contracted by the local village to handle ordinance violations and low-level misdemeanors. They may be more open to alternative resolutions such as:

• Supervision
• Theft deterrent classes
• Community service
• Deferred prosecutions

Knowing who is prosecuting your case is essential in shaping your defense strategy. I work with both Kane County State’s Attorneys and Village Prosecutors regularly and I understand how to tailor your defense for each situation.

Consequences of a Shoplifting Conviction

A shoplifting conviction is not something to take lightly. The consequences can impact your criminal record, your employment, and your future.

Misdemeanor Shoplifting (Class A)

Most first-time shoplifting offenses involving merchandise valued under $300 are charged as Class A misdemeanors. Penalties can include:

• Up to 12 months in jail
• Fines up to $2,500
• Probation or conditional discharge
• Community service
• Permanent criminal record

Felony Retail Theft

Shoplifting becomes a felony if:

• The value of the stolen merchandise is over $300
• If you have a prior Retail Theft conviction
• The theft involved use of an emergency exit or was part of a retail theft ring

Felony Retail Theft is usually charged as a Class 4 or Class 3 felony, punishable by:

• 1 to 3 years in prison (Class 4)
• 2 to 5 years in prison (Class 3)
• Substantial fines
• Permanent felony record

Even if you avoid jail, a criminal conviction for shoplifting can permanently damage your reputation, limit job opportunities, and result in immigration consequences if you are not a U.S. citizen.

Felony shoplifting cases are not at the Elgin Branch Court. The Elgin Branch Court only has misdemeanor shoplifting cases.

Real Examples of Shoplifting Cases at the Elgin Branch Court

Here are examples from actual shoplifting cases I have successfully defended at the Elgin Branch Court:

Case 1: First-Time Offender – Elgin Walmart
A young lady was charged with Class A misdemeanor shoplifting for allegedly stealing less than $100 worth of cosmetics from a Walmart in Elgin. I negotiated with the Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office to allow my client to complete a theft awareness class. The case was dismissed, and we later filed to have the record expunged.

Case 2: Repeat Offender – South Elgin Target
A client with a prior theft conviction was charged with shoplifting for stealing electronics valued at $150. The Village Prosecutor initially sought jail time. I presented evidence of the client’s mental health treatment and restitution efforts. The charge was reduced to an ordinance violation with supervision and no conviction.

Case 3: Mistaken Identity – West Dundee Kohl’s
A woman was wrongly accused of shoplifting based on a store employee’s testimony. We obtained surveillance video and witness statements that showed she had not committed any theft. The Village Prosecutor dismissed the charges in open court.

Why Hire Me for Your Shoplifting Case at the Elgin Branch Court?

Choosing the right attorney for a shoplifting case at the Elgin Branch Court can make a significant difference in your outcome. Here’s why clients trust me to handle these cases:

• Courtroom Experience: I appear regularly at the Elgin Branch Court and know the judges, prosecutors, and procedures inside and out.
• Custom Defense Strategies: I tailor each defense to your unique situation, whether it’s a first-time offense, a case of mistaken identity, or a complex legal issue.
• Strong Negotiation Skills: I work with both Village Prosecutors and the Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office to secure dismissals, reduced charges, or alternative sentencing options.
• Focus on Record Protection: I always explore ways to keep your record clean, including dismissal, supervision, or expungement after the case is resolved.
• Aggressive Advocacy: I fight for your rights and will take your case to trial if necessary to achieve the best possible result.

Take Action Today to Protect Your Future

If you’ve been charged with shoplifting and your case is at the Elgin Branch Court, the most important step you can take is hiring a skilled, experienced criminal defense lawyer.

Contact me, James Dimeas, today for a free and confidential consultation. I’ll review the facts of your case, explain your legal options, and build a defense strategy tailored to your situation.

Don’t wait. Call me now at 847-807-7405, or complete the online form to schedule your consultation. The sooner we get started, the better your chances of a successful outcome.