Shoplifting

San Joaquin Shoplifting Attorney

Defending Those Who Have Been Accused Of Shoplifting in California

Shoplifting is a crime that is taken very seriously in California. If you are convicted of shoplifting, you could face severe penalties, including jail time, fines, and a criminal record. If you have been accused of shoplifting, it is important to take the matter seriously. At Krueger Law, our San Joaquin shoplifting lawyer understands the tactics and strategies that prosecutors use to secure convictions in these cases, and we know how to effectively counter them. We stand ready to defend you and your rights.

Contact Krueger Legal today at (209) 565-0750 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our shoplifting lawyer in San Joaquin.

What is Shoplifting?

Shoplifting, commonly referred to as petty theft, occurs when an individual unlawfully takes merchandise from a store without paying for it. California law defines shoplifting under Penal Code sections 484 and 488. Shoplifting can take various forms, including concealing items, altering price tags, or simply walking out of a store without paying.

It's crucial to understand that shoplifting is not limited to physical items. Retailers also consider altering barcodes, switching packaging, or manipulating electronic security devices as forms of shoplifting. The prosecution must prove intent to permanently deprive the store of the merchandise for a shoplifting conviction.

What are the Penalties for Shoplifting in California?

Shoplifting penalties in California vary based on the value of the stolen items and the defendant's criminal history. In San Joaquin, the consequences of a shoplifting conviction may include fines, probation, community service, and even jail time. Understanding the severity of potential penalties is essential in building a robust defense strategy.

Misdemeanor Shoplifting: For thefts involving items valued at less than $950, the offense is normally charged as a misdemeanor. Convictions can lead to fines, probation, and up to six months in county jail.
Felony Shoplifting: If the stolen items exceed $950 in value, the offense may be charged as a felony. Felony convictions carry more severe consequences, including substantial fines and the possibility of imprisonment in state prison.

It is important to note that shoplifting convictions can have long-term consequences beyond the immediate penalties. A criminal record can impact employment opportunities, housing applications, and more.

Defenses Against Shoplifting Charges

Some common defenses against shoplifting charges may include:

Lack of Intent: Shoplifting charges require proof of intent to deprive the store of the merchandise. If it can be demonstrated that there was no intention to steal, this defense may be viable.
False Accusation: Mistaken identity or false accusations by store personnel are not uncommon. We can investigate the circumstances of your case to uncover any discrepancies in the evidence against you.
Illegal Search and Seizure: If law enforcement or store security conducts an unlawful search or seizure, the evidence acquired may be deemed inadmissible in court. This can significantly weaken the prosecution's case.

Will Shoplifting Affect Your Future Employment?

A shoplifting conviction can significantly impact future employment opportunities. Many employers conduct background checks during the hiring process, and a criminal record showing theft may raise concerns about trustworthiness and integrity. Retail theft, even for low-value items, can be seen as a red flag, especially in industries where handling money, valuable merchandise, or sensitive information is involved.

In some cases, a shoplifting charge can be expunged, which removes it from public records. However, this process is not always guaranteed and may depend on the nature of the offense and state-specific laws. It’s important to explore all legal options to minimize the long-term consequences of a conviction.

If convicted of shoplifting, it is critical to seek legal assistance to protect your future. An experienced San Joaquin shoplifting attorney can help negotiate a favorable outcome, such as reducing the charge, or pursuing alternatives like diversion programs, which may lead to case dismissal. Keeping your criminal record clean is crucial in maintaining future job prospects, as even minor offenses can limit career opportunities.

Contact Our Shoplifting Lawyer in San Joaquin Today

At Krueger Lega, our commitment to protecting your rights and building a strategic defense sets us apart. We will review the details of your case, explore potential defenses, and work tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome for you. Trust us to be your dedicated advocates in the face of legal challenges.

Contact Krueger Legal by calling (209) 565-0750 today to get started with our San Joaquin shoplifting attorney.

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