Shoplifting is not a violent crime, but it can cause monumental problems. One theft charge can ruin your reputation. It can result in loss of employment, loss of housing, and even loss of a degree. Most people are frightened and isolated when they get arrested. You don’t have to be alone. You can have an affordable Kansas City criminal defense lawyer represent you.
What Is Shoplifting?
Shoplifting is store theft. It is concealed merchandise, switch and possess, or leave a store. Theft is illegal in the state of Kansas. You may be detained by store employees, security officers, and police officers and be put into jail, fined, or both. Even a little shoplifting can be bad. A misdemeanor will be on your record forever. A felony can be jail time and higher fines. A lawyer can prevent the worst of it from occurring.
Motivations for Shoplifting
People shoplift for a lot of different reasons:
- Need or financial stress
- Stress or illness
- Peer pressure or a challenge
- Poor judgment
One mistake does not have to define your life. When you are arrested for shoplifting, don’t wait. The sooner you speak with a lawyer, the better your opportunities.
What Happens After a Shoplifting Arrest?
The police can arrest you in the store then or they can arrest you later. They will book you. They will fingerprint and take pictures of you. They will set a court date. That is frightening. But it is not that frightening once you find out more about it. If this is your first arrest, you are able to have the charge dropped from your record. Diversion programs will get you out of jail, if you qualify. You will be told what to do by an attorney.
Why You Need a Kansas City Shoplifting Lawyer
You might be looking at:
- Thousands of dollars in fines
- Jail or probation
- A criminal record that will follow you around
- Having difficulty finding a job or obtaining loans
A lawyer can:
- Examine the evidence
- Find flaws in the case
- Argue for you with the prosecutor
- Negotiate a dismissal or plea agreement on your behalf
You are entitled to representation even if you are guilty. You deserve to have someone fight for you.
How a Lawyer Prepares Your Defense
Each case is unique. But most shoplifting cases are processed like this:
1. Examining the evidence
The lawyer reviews store videotape, receipts, and testimony.
2. Deciding if a rights violation occurred
If the police have not read you your rights, the evidence is withheld.
3. Negotiating with the store
Stores would rather get their money back than see you in jail.
4. Negotiating a reasonable resolution
Your lawyer can plead lesser charges or diversion.
5. Trial preparation
Your lawyer will defend you at trial in the event no deal on a plea bargain is reached.
What Is a Diversion Program?
A diversion program keeps you out of jail and cleans your record. You will have to comply with rules like:
- Pay the store back
- Doing community service
- Being a good kid
- Taking classes
If you do, they will dismiss your charge. Anyone can do this, but you can speak with your lawyer to determine if you qualify.
Penalties for Kansas City Shoplifting
Punishment depends on the value of the merchandise and your record:
- Under $1,500: Typically a misdemeanor, 1 year or less in jail.
- Over $1,500: Felony, several years in prison.
- Second and later offenses: Enhanced penalty.
Although it’s a misdemeanor, it may impact your life anyway.
Why You Must Act Right Away
Time is of the essence. Evidence vanishes. Witnesses forget. You need to move fast in order to begin preparing for your defense. The sooner you hire a lawyer, the stronger your case will be.
How a Shoplifting Charge Impacts Your Life
Most individuals think that an accusation of theft is not a big deal. The truth is, it will come back to haunt you for twenty years. Employers will automatically run background checks. Landlords will reject your lease. You will be unable to get loans or licenses. Save your future by contesting the charge.
What to Look for in a Kansas City Shoplifting Attorney
Select an attorney who:
- Experience with cases of theft
- Knowledge of the local courts
- A record of lowering charges
- Open and honest communication
A good lawyer will listen to you and explain what he or she is doing in the process.
What to Do If You Are Charged
Stay calm
Don’t fight with police officers or shop managers.
Exercise your right of silence
Talk, and it can be used against you.
Ask for a lawyer at once
Don’t sign anything until you get an attorney.
Gather evidence
Save receipts and witness statements.
Contact a Kansas City shoplifting lawyer
The sooner you call, the better your case will be.
How We Can Help
Our law firm works with commitment to preserve your record and your feeling of well-being. We understand. You are entitled to aggressive defense and respect.
Free case consultations.
- Flexible fee arrangements
- Clear answers to all of your questions
- Aggressive representation at every turn
Call Now to Save Your Record
You have worked so hard in your life. Don’t let one charge ruin it all. Call an experienced Kansas City Shoplifting lawyer today and schedule an appointment free.
Most Frequently Asked Questions About Kansas City Shoplifting Charges
1. Is a shoplifting charge able to be dismissed?
Yes. Charges get dismissed sometimes because there is insufficient evidence or there were violated rights. A lawyer can make this happen.
2. If I accidentally shoplifted something from the store, am I in trouble?
It’s all about intent. If you can prove it was accidental, you may be able to keep out of jail.
3. Will the shoplifting charge remain on my record indefinitely?
Possibly. But some first-time offenses can be removed by diversion or expungement.
4. Do I need to get an attorney if it is a petty theft?
Yes. A petty theft can get out of hand. An attorney protects your rights and defends you.
5. How much does a Kansas City shoplifting attorney cost?
It depends. Most attorneys have payment plans and free consultations.
