Retail Theft Cases at the Glendale Heights Branch Court

Retail Theft at the Glendale Heights Branch Court: What You Need to Know

If you have been charged with Retail Theft and your case is being heard at the Glendale Heights Branch Court, it is critical to understand the legal process, the potential consequences, and how a knowledgeable and experienced criminal defense attorney can help you navigate the system and protect your rights. My name is James Dimeas, and I am a criminal defense lawyer who has successfully handled countless Retail Theft cases at the Glendale Heights Branch Court. With over 32 years of experience, I know how these cases are prosecuted, what the court expects, and most importantly, how to defend you.

What is the Glendale Heights Branch Court?

The Glendale Heights Branch Court is located at 300 East Fullerton Avenue in Glendale Heights, Illinois. It is one of several branch courts serving DuPage County and primarily handles misdemeanor criminal offenses, traffic violations, and municipal ordinance violations. If your Retail Theft charge is a misdemeanor, it may be heard at this branch location. The courthouse operates Monday through Friday and is part of the 18th Judicial Circuit Court of DuPage County.

What sets the Glendale Heights Branch Court apart from the main courthouse in Wheaton is that it serves several local municipalities, including Glendale Heights, Bloomingdale, Addison, and other surrounding suburbs. Cases are often brought by municipal police departments, and depending on the nature of the charge, the case may be prosecuted by either a local Village Prosecutor or the DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office.

Village Prosecutors vs. DuPage County State’s Attorney

One of the key aspects of handling a Retail Theft case at the Glendale Heights Branch Court is determining who is prosecuting the case. In some instances, Retail Theft cases are prosecuted by local Village Prosecutors. These prosecutors are hired by individual municipalities—such as the Village of Glendale Heights or the Village of Bloomingdale—to handle misdemeanor and ordinance violations. When the alleged theft is minor, involves a first-time offender, or falls under a local ordinance, the case may be prosecuted by one of these Village Prosecutors.

However, more serious Retail Theft cases, particularly those that involve repeat offenders, higher-value merchandise, or additional charges such as resisting arrest or possession of burglary tools, are typically prosecuted by the DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office. These prosecutors are state employees and often take a more aggressive approach to Retail Theft cases, especially if the defendant has a prior criminal record or the offense is charged as a Class A misdemeanor or felony.

Understanding which prosecuting authority is handling your case is essential because it can influence the options available for resolution, including plea deals, diversion programs, or the possibility of a case being dismissed or reduced.

Consequences of a Retail Theft Conviction

Retail Theft is a serious charge in Illinois, and a conviction can have long-lasting consequences. Even if it is your first offense, a Retail Theft conviction is a Class A misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. Additionally, a conviction for Retail Theft results in a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, immigration status, and future opportunities.

In some cases, Retail Theft can be charged as a felony. For example:

• If the value of the stolen merchandise exceeds $300,
• If the defendant has a prior Retail Theft conviction,
• Or if the theft was committed using an emergency exit,

the charge can be upgraded to a Class 4 or Class 3 felony. Felony convictions carry much harsher penalties, including potential prison time. Cases like that are typically at the DuPage County Courthouse in Wheaton.

Because of the serious nature of these consequences, it is essential to have an experienced criminal defense attorney who knows how to work within the Glendale Heights Branch Court system and can fight to protect your record and your freedom.

Real Examples of Retail Theft Cases in Glendale Heights Branch Court

Over the years, I have handled numerous Retail Theft cases at the Glendale Heights Branch Court, each with its own unique set of circumstances. Here are a few examples to help illustrate the types of cases that are commonly seen:

Case Example 1: First-Time Offender at a Major Retail Store A young college student was charged with Retail Theft after allegedly attempting to leave a Target store with $85 worth of clothing without paying. The Village Prosecutor for Glendale Heights handled the case. Because it was the client’s first offense and the value of the merchandise was relatively low, I was able to negotiate a deferred prosecution agreement. The client completed a short theft-awareness program, and the case was ultimately dismissed.

Case Example 2: Repeat Offender at a Department Store A client with a prior conviction for Retail Theft was arrested at Kohl’s for allegedly stealing over $400 worth of merchandise. The case was prosecuted by the DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office as a felony. The case was transferred to the DuPage County Judicial Center. I was able to challenge the evidence, including the store surveillance footage and witness statements, and successfully negotiated a plea to a reduced misdemeanor charge, avoiding a felony conviction and jail time.

Case Example 3: Theft from a Mall Retailer with Immigration Concerns An immigrant client was arrested for Retail Theft at a store across the street from the shuttered Stratford Square Mall. Because a conviction could have triggered immigration consequences, I aggressively pursued every legal defense available. The case was prosecuted by the Village of Bloomingdale. After presenting mitigating evidence and demonstrating the client’s lack of criminal history, I was able to secure a sentence, which helped the client avoid a conviction and protect their immigration status.

Why Hire James Dimeas for Your Glendale Heights Retail Theft Case?

As a criminal defense attorney who regularly handles Retail Theft cases at the Glendale Heights Branch Court, I know how to navigate the system and work with both Village Prosecutors and the DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office. I have built strong relationships with the judges, clerks, and prosecutors at this courthouse, and I understand what arguments are most effective in getting Retail Theft charges reduced, dismissed, or resolved without a conviction.

When you hire me, you get:

• A personalized defense strategy tailored to your case
• Aggressive negotiation and courtroom advocacy
• Thorough investigation of all facts and evidence
• Open communication and honest advice every step of the way

Retail Theft charges can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. The sooner you contact me, the sooner we can begin working on your defense and exploring your options. Whether this is your first offense or you have prior convictions, I have the experience and knowledge necessary to help you achieve the best possible outcome.

Contact Me Today for a Free Consultation

If you are facing a Retail Theft charge at the Glendale Heights Branch Court, don’t wait. Call me, Attorney James Dimeas, today at 847-807-7405 or fill out the contact form on this website to schedule your free and confidential consultation. Let me put my experience to work for you and fight to protect your future!