What are the penalties for shoplifting?

Your case is governed by Fla. Statute 812.015. A first time shoplifting charge where the property is valued at under $100.00 is a misdemeanor of the second degree punishable by a fine not to exceed $500 and/or 60 days in jail. If the court adjudicates you guilty the Court can also order a suspension of your driver's license for up to 6 months under F.S. 812.0155. However, there are other options available to the prosecutor and the Judge. A Judge could withhold adjudication of guilt and also has the option of placing you on probation. The State Attorney could offer a diversion plan, a pre-trial intervention or some other conditional type of resolution.

The worst that can happen is 1 year in the county jail. What is more likely to happen is that a deferred prosecution will be offered to you, that you complete community service hours, pay court costs, and complete a class. Then the case will be dropped. Another thing that will happen is that you will get a letter from the attorneys for the store saying you owe a civil penalty of $200.00. Talk them down to what you can afford.