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Los Angeles Shoplifting Defense Attorneys 
Shoplifting
Shoplifting is the unlawful taking of property from a store. Shoplifting charges often result from simple mistakes but the penalties can be severe. It is important to take any and all shoplifting charges seriously and to seek the assistance of a reputed Los Angeles theft crime defense attorney. A skilled defense lawyer will review all aspects of the case and look for ways to have the charges dropped or lessened.
Types of Shoplifting Crimes
Shoplifting is considered the number one property crime in the United States. Shoplifting comes in various forms including:
- Eating food and hiding the wrappers
- Wearing articles of clothing while concealing the tags
- Switching the price tags to pay a lower price
- Leaving a store without paying for items
There are of course several cases where shoplifting actually takes place. There are also many cases where shoplifting charges are the result of a mistake or misunderstanding. An experienced theft crime defense lawyer will be able to carefully review each case and determine the best course of action for a defendant.
Petty Theft and Shoplifting Defense
Depending upon the value of the property stolen, most shoplifting cases fall under the umbrella of petty theft. With regard to shoplifting, petty theft is when less than $400 worth of property is unlawfully taken from a store. Your intention to steal the item or items from the store is crucial to your defense. You may not be convicted of shoplifting if it can be proven that you never intended to steal. If you leave a store without paying for an item, it may be grounds for shoplifting charges, but if you only left with the item on accident and it was not your intent to steal the item, it is very likely that the charges will be dropped. An experienced Los Angeles theft crime defense lawyer will be able to help you tell your side of the story.
Penalties for Shoplifting
Much like petty theft, shoplifting is a misdemeanor offense that has a wide range of penalties. First-time offenders may be able to have their sentence reduced to an infraction if they commit to an informal probation, community service and anti-theft classes. A fine of $250 may be imposed if the total value of the items in question is valued under $50. Repeat offenders may face 16 months to three years in state prison or a one year sentence with a felony charge. Having an experienced criminal defense attorney could make all the difference between having your charges dropped and having to serve time in state prison.
If you are facing shoplifting charges or any type of theft charge, it is crucial that you hire a reputed Los Angeles criminal defense attorney who will fight for your rights. The skilled LA theft crime defense attorneys at Takakjian & Sitkoff, LLP always offer free consultations to those who have been accused of theft in Los Angeles. Call our offices today to discuss your case.
If you have been arrested for a shoplifting offense then please call us immediately for a FREE CONSULTATION at (888) 579-4844.
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