Getting caught doing any type of crime can be a scary and daunting process, and then if you’re caught red handed shoplifting with an item in your pocket while you’re in a store, it can be a little more problematic. An experienced criminal lawyer will recommend that you retain representation right away so that you can come up with a plan to defend yourself. You should always reach out to a criminal lawyer in order to have someone on your side to defend you and your freedom.
Shoplifting Lawyer
Shoplifting often involves concealing an item and then being caught before leaving the store. In some situations, it’s shoplifting before the last point of sale and then larceny thereafter. For instance, if you’re walking in a local store, you grab an item off the shelf. It does not seem like anyone is looking, so you stick it in your pocket. This would be considered shoplifting because you concealed the item on you. But then you walk past the cash register and the last point of sale and outside of the store. At this point it would be considered a larceny. Shoplifting charges are quite common and the district attorney’s office will look at things such as your prior history when making a determination as to what happens with your case.
Larceny Attorney
If you left the store with the goods, this becomes a larceny charge. A question criminal lawyers often receive is what caused it to be a felony larceny charge. Typically felony larceny charges stem from the value of the item taken. If it’s in excess of $1,000, then in a lot of situations you will be charged with a felony because of the higher amount involved. If you’re caught in the store with something concealed in your pocket, this would still most likely be a shoplifting charge. Some stores have created their own system for resolving these theft cases outside of court, but it’s important to note that signing a statement with a loss prevention officer can and will be used against you in court. Please be mindful of this when dealing with a shoplifting case.You should always retain the assistance of a lawyer before speaking with anyone or signing anything.
Theft Lawyer
Lawyers understand full well the importance of protecting your record from having a shoplifting or larceny charge. Crimes involving theft don’t look good on job applications and hence when it’s vital that you speak with a top rated criminal lawyer, such as those at Garrett, Walker, Aycoth & Olson, Attorneys at Law. They can navigate these waters for you to protect your rights and also your record. If you get caught taking something that doesn’t belong to you, take a deep breath, a shoplifting lawyer can look at your case and create a plan to protect you and your record.
