It might not seem worth it to hire an attorney for a shoplifting incident. But shoplifting charges can have serious effects on your future. It can make a huge difference to have an experienced attorney like Dan E. Chambers to help you fight charges and clear your name.
If you’ve been accused of shoplifting, it might seem like a minor incident, but it can have a major impact on your life. It could ruin your chances of working in retail or other jobs that require criminal background checks. If you are convicted of shoplifting, your name will be entered into the national retail theft database and be accessible for the next seven years.
If you are facing charges for shoplifting, protect your reputation and your future by getting expert help from Southern California’s top criminal defense attorney, Dan E. Chambers.
Changes under Proposition 47
In California, shoplifting property worth less than $950 used to fall into the broader category of petty theft crimes. In November 2014, Proposition 47 created a new category specifically for shoplifting crimes.
Shoplifting is defined as entering a business during regular business hours with the intent to steal from the store. The stolen property must be worth less than $950, or it will be considered a more serious theft crime. Even if you are not successful, you can still be charged with shoplifting—if you had the intent to steal. If you never intended to steal anything, but accidently walked out of the store because you forgot you were carrying an item, that can be used in your defense.
Infraction or misdemeanor?
If you are charged with a shoplifting misdemeanor, you could face a fine of up to $1000, six months in county jail, and informal probation. But it may be possible to have those charges reduced from a misdemeanor to just an infraction. Infractions are not considered criminal charges and will not go on your criminal record, and you will not face jail time.
If you are accused of stealing an item worth less than $50, and you have no prior theft convictions, the prosecutor has the discretion to charge you with an infraction, rather than a misdemeanor. You might have to pay a fine of up to $250, but you won’t get jail time.
If you are accused of stealing over $50 worth of property, but it is just your first offense, you might be able to get a “petty theft diversion” program. You would be required to repay the value of the merchandise, and you might also have to do community service and attend anti-theft classes. But the charges against you would be dismissed.
Make your best defense with the Chambers Law Firm
Unfortunately, if you have prior offenses, you could receive a heavier sentence. However, there are a number of defenses that might apply, such as when a misunderstanding has occurred, or a false accusation has been made. A good defense attorney can make all the difference in your case.
With Dan E. Chambers as your shoplifting defense attorney, you can rest assured that your case—big or small—will receive the very best attention. Don’t hesitate to contact the Chambers Law Firm today by calling 714-760-4088, emailing dchambers@clfca.com, or sending an online message via the Chat box at the bottom right of this page.
