Taking The Right Next Steps
An arrest for shoplifting is not only embarrassing but serious. A conviction can result in fines, jail, a criminal record, loss of employment, and can even affect immigration.
Shoplifting Defense
A suspected shoplifter is usually contacted and detained by store security after being observed taking merchandise from the merchant without paying for it. A commonly asked question by those accused of the offense is what are the potential consequences and how are they going to be treated by the criminal justice system and the Court? The answer to that question depends on what steps are taken by the accused shoplifter immediately after the event. If the individual becomes proactive and seeks the assistance of a local lawyer, the outcome can, and often will be very different than for those who do nothing and bury their head in the sand hoping it will all go away. You need a lawyer that will work towards obtaining a disposition that, in many cases, does not result in a criminal conviction that will haunt an individual for the rest of their lives.
Unfortunately, many people try to save the money they’d spend on a lawyer and go to Court and plead no contest for probation.
The long term consequences of not spending money on a good lawyer can far outweigh any money saved.
More and more, employers are doing exhaustive criminal records checks on prospective employees. Most consider a shoplifting conviction to be a serious act of dishonesty, which then justifies the denial of employment. Our criminal defense attorneys know the local customs and practices of the Court, and they can often find an alternative to a criminal conviction.
Don’t wait! If you’ve been charged with shoplifting, call our experienced staff immediately to get the assistance you need and deserve.
Contact us today to discuss all your legal needs.
