Words cannot express how grateful I am to you...
- Wendy C. 
Los Angeles Theft Defense Lawyers 
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is shoplifting?
- Why was I charged with commercial burglary when I thought I was arrested for shoplifting?
- I've heard of "kleptomania" what is it?
- Are there counselors that I can see about my desire to steal?
- Will I be charged with a misdemeanor or a felony? And what is the punishment?
Frequently Asked Questions
Shoplifting is the taking of items without consent from a commercial establishment, such as a department store or market.
Why was I charged with commercial burglary when I thought I was arrested for shoplifting?
When someone enters a building with the intent to steal or commit any other felony it is burglary. This is usually charged when someone is found with bags or devices brought in to the store to assist in concealing the stolen merchandise. Using these bags or devices arguably shows intent to steal was in the person's mind before entering the store.
I've heard of "kleptomania" what is it?
Kleptomania is a mental disorder associated with a compulsive need to steal. "Kleptomania is associated with a recurrent failure to resist impulses to steal objects that are not needed for personal use or for their monetary value; increasing sense of tension immediately before committing the theft and pleasure, gratification, or relief at the time of committing the theft. The stealing is not committed to express anger or vengeance and is not in response to a delusion or a hallucination."
Are there counselors that I can see about my desire to steal?
We frequently refer our clients to BMG - Behavioral Management Group http://www.bmgprograms.com for theft profile screening and counseling. Successful completion of this course will frequently lessen the seriousness of the offense or sentence. Please call 818-366-0179 or email Denise Parillo at denise@bmgprograms.com
Will I be charged with a misdemeanor or a felony? And what is the punishment?
Theft can be prosecuted either as a misdemeanor or a felony. The value of the item taken or any prior convictions often determines the seriousness of the crime. Items valued at under $950.00 are prosecuted as misdemeanor petty theft. Items in excess of $950.00 can be prosecuted as LA felony grand theft. The punishment for petty theft is up to six months in the county jail and by a fine of up to $1,000 and the punishment for grand theft could either be county jail or state prison plus fines up to $10,000.00. If convicted, a mandatory jail sentence and restitution to the victim is almost always ordered as a condition of probation.
If you have been arrested for a theft offense then please call us immediately for a FREE CONSULTATION at (888) 579-4844
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