JKR Law

Grand Theft | Petty Theft |Receiving Stolen Property | Theft Charges

Shoplifting Definition:

“The unlawful taking of merchandise from a store”

Forms of Shoplifting:

• Concealing tags or wrappers while wearing the clothes or after eating food
• Switching tags on merchandise or modifying labels
• Walking out of a store without paying for goods or paying the bill

Shoplifting can be charged as either a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on both the value of the merchandise stolen and the criminal record of the accused. Shoplifting is considered petty theft when the value of the merchandise stolen is less than $400. The crime is charges as grand theft when the merchandise’s value is greater than $400.

Punishment for Shoplifting Can Include:

• Jail time
• Probation
• Community Service
• Mark on your criminal record that will affect obtaining future employment and security clearances and cause potential embarrassment

By getting a criminal defense attorney with a proven track record of success involved in your case, you may be able to get your shoplifting charge reduced to trespassing or disturbing the peace, especially if the evidence is weak or there are no corroborating witnesses or video available. Contact JKR Law today (310)477-2100 for a free case evaluation and to get started toward a favorable resolution to your case.