Shoplifting Defense Lawyers

What Does a Shoplifting Charge Involve?

you will need to hire a shoplifting defense attorney as quickly as possible. California law defines the crime of theft as the unlawful seizure of another’s property. When this property is valued at $950 or less, the crime is classified as petty theft. A majority of petty theft cases involve taking property from a retail store or facility of some type. Shoplifting is defined by entering an establishment during the hours of operation with the intent to steal items worth $950.00 or less.

Consequences of a Shoplifting Conviction

Both petty theft and shoplifting are considered misdemeanors in the state of California. Most first time penalties for shoplifting convictions will involve maximum of a $1,000 fine and/or up to 6 months in jail. However, if you are convicted, you will also have a mark on your criminal record which can affect your life in a number of different ways.

Legal Defenses for Shoplifting Charges

It is vital that you consult with a criminal defense attorney who can defend your rights aggressively. There a number of particularly effective defenses when it comes down to reducing or dismissing a charge of petty theft. Our shoplifting defense lawyers are adept at building these types of defenses and can help you or a loved receive the results they you want to see.

Possible defenses we may use to reduce or dismiss a shoplifting charge include:

• You had no intention of stealing or shoplifting
• You thought the item in question belonged to you
• The person you were accused of stealing from actually gave you permission to have the item
• You were falsely accused

Accused of a Theft Crime & Need Legal Representation?

If you or loved one have found yourself a tricky legal situation, our criminal defense attorneys would like to offer you a free case consultation to discuss your options. We are here to work with you to get your charges reduced or dropped.