Orange County Shoplifting Attorney

Defense for Retail Theft / Shoplifting Charges

Have you been arrested on suspicion of shoplifting in the Orange County area? It is important to talk to an Orange County criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Although a first shoplifting offense is typically a misdemeanor and no jail sentence may be imposed, multiple offenses or retail theft involving property of a significant value, or other aggravating circumstances, may result in enhanced charges.

Regardless of the specific shoplifting charges you or your loved one faces, it is important to understand how a conviction can impact your future. Often, theft-related convictions prove to be a barrier to many people who seek better opportunities in their life, including employment opportunities. To ensure you protect your rights and future after being charged, contacting an experienced defense lawyer should be your top priority.

What is shoplifting?

Shoplifting is a crime that is related to taking goods or property from a retail establishment that has these goods for sale. When the property is valued at $50 to $400, shoplifting will be classified as petty theft. It is a misdemeanor punishable by a county jail sentence of up to 6 months. If the value of property is more than $400, however, you may find yourself facing felony charges and up to 16 months in state prison.

In an effort to take a different approach to the way our criminal justice system treats non-violent offenders, California voters passed Proposition 47 in November, 2014. Under Prop 47, certain individuals who are arrested for shoplifting property valued at less than $950 may now be eligible for reduced charges and penalties.

Our legal team can help clients charged with shoplifting explore all of their available options for a positive outcome after a shoplifting arrest, including Prop 47.

Put a Proven Lawyer on Your Side

As an experienced criminal defense lawyer, Virginia L. Landry has the knowledge and resources to properly handle your case. Before you accept a plea bargain or consider trying to qualify for a Public Defender, contact our law offices. Your initial consultation is free and confidential. We will take the time to talk to you about your particular shoplifting charges, the circumstances of your arrest, and how we can help you. You may be surprised to find that we may be able to have your charges dropped or may be able to secure a not guilty verdict, even in what seemed like an "open and shut" case at first glance.

Call Today to Discuss Your Case

The Law Offices of Virginia L. Landry serves clients throughout Orange County from our office in Aliso Viejo. We encourage anyone facing shoplifting charges, as well as the parents of minors who have been charged with shoplifting, to contact our legal team as soon as possible. Time is an important factor in these cases, which is why you need to act fast to protect yourself!