CALIFORNIA CRIMINAL LAWYERS

Los Angeles Shoplifting

The Consequences of Shoplifting in Los Angeles: Civil and Criminal Penalties

Shoplifting in LA is a serious crime that can lead to dire consequences such as hefty fines and jail time. Shoplifters can also face a lawsuit brought by the store to recover damages to any stolen merchandise or money. The act of shoplifting is defined as “theft of goods” which can occur when one takes something without consent or by means of fraud. Purposely concealing items in-store, swapping price tags, damaging an item for a discounted price, or modifying the cash register are all actions that can demonstrate intent to deprive a merchant. Shoplifters detained in LA can receive either criminal or civil penalties according to the California law. Petty theft, grand theft, and burglary are the three types of theft cases often heard in court. Petty theft is stealing anything valued at $400.00 or less and is classified as a misdemeanor under Penal Code Section 488. Anything stolen that is valued at $50.00 or less is typically charged as an infraction. Grand theft applies to any merchandise over $400.00 and is charged as a felony under Penal Code Section 487. Meanwhile, burglary involved breaking and entering a building, home, vessel, or business to commit a theft, categorized as a felony under Penal Code Section 459.

We are a competent legal firm that will tackle your shoplifting case in Los Angeles with utmost care and concern. Our priority is to provide you with the legal representation possible for your case. It is important to note that you should never speak to the police without your lawyer present. Remember that everything you say can and will be used against you in court! Rest assured, our lawyers are on your side and committed to helping you obtain the results possible for your case. Fortunately, there are a variety of defenses that can be employed for shoplifting cases. For example, to be charged with shoplifting, you must have taken the property without the intention of paying for it. If we can prove that you took the item by mistake or were forgetful at the time, the charges might be dropped, or the severity of the charges reduced. If you did commit the crime of shoplifting deliberately, we will work with you to help you avoid a criminal conviction.

In Los Angeles courts, many prosecutors and judges are open to plea bargains that help defendants avoid having a criminal record. This can greatly benefit your case if you are a first-time offender. Although it may be challenging to negotiate a plea bargain if the amount of stolen goods exceeds $150.00, our experienced attorneys may have other strategies to secure a lesser charge for your offense. We will put forth our utmost efforts to ensure that you receive a fair trial. Get in touch with us today to discuss your shoplifting case in Los Angeles.

The 3 Types of Theft Cases

Petty Theft

Any goods valued at $400.00 or less that are stolen will be classified as petty theft, this is a misdemeanor under Penal Code Section 488. Any item valued at $50.00 or less stolen is generally reduced to an infraction.

Grand Theft

The theft of any goods over $400.00 is classified as grand theft, charged as a felony under Penal Code Section 487.

Burglary

Burglary involves entering or breaking into a home, business, vessel, or building with the intent to commit a theft. Burglary is always classified as a felony under Penal Code Section 459.

Legal Defenses for Shoplifting

Shoplifting is a severe crime in Los Angeles, but there are several legal defenses that can be employed in court to avoid penalties. One defense is that one must have taken property without intending to make a payment for it. For instance, if we can prove that you forgot to pay or mistakenly took the item, the charges might be dropped, or the severity of the charges reduced. Furthermore, if you intentionally were involved in shoplifting, we will assist you in avoiding a criminal conviction. Our attorneys are well-versed in negotiating plea bargains with prosecutors, especially if you are a first-time offender. This can aid in avoiding a criminal record, which can have long-term consequences, such as difficulty obtaining employment.

Legal Representation for Shoplifting Cases in Los Angeles

Shoplifting is a severe crime in Los Angeles, and the related penalties can be significant. It is recommended that you seek professional advice from our law firm, which specializes in legal representation for shoplifting cases in Los Angeles. We are committed to fighting for your legal rights and using our expertise to achieve the outcomes possible for your case. If you have been charged with shoplifting in Los Angeles, please contact us right away. Our goal is to ensure the possible outcome for your case.