How To Get Shoplifting Charges Dropped
If you are wondering how to get shoplifting charges dropped, this post will answer all your questions regarding retail theft charges and more. Maybe you recently got caught stealing at Walmart. Or perhaps you accidentally walked out of a store without paying for an item.
Things like this happen all the time by mistake, but unfortunately, even if your intention wasn’t to steal, you may be facing some serious criminal charges.
Are You Worried About Shoplifting Charges?
Are you worried about being charged with shoplifting or retail theft? If so, the first thing to know is that you shouldn’t worry! There are steps you can take steps to get retail theft charges dropped if you act swiftly and take the right legal advice.
In this blog article, we will guide you through the process of getting retail theft charges dropped, including what you should and shouldn’t do when you are being charged as well as discussing the possible outcomes of your case. We’ll also discuss the importance of hiring a criminal attorney to help get those charges dropped or reduced.
PRO TIP: Learn all about the long term impact of a theft conviction.
Here’s What You Should Do To Get Retail Theft Charges Dropped
Avoid Saying Anything That Can Paint You As Guilty
If you are caught shoplifting, the first thing you should do is remain calm and cooperate with store security or the police. Do not argue or try to rationalize your actions, as this will only make the situation worse. If you are asked to give a statement, you should decline and ask to speak to an attorney. It is important that you do not say anything that could be used against you in court.
Don’t Try To Flee
If security is trying to stop you, don’t try to fight back or flee. This will only make you come across as guilty for retail theft. Instead, comply with the security officer and let them apprehend you calmly. Doing so will help paint a picture of someone who isn’t necessarily guilty of retail theft.
Get A Legal Consultation
One of the first things to do if you’re facing retail theft charges is to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney for a consultation. A good lawyer will be able to tell you what to expect and help you develop a strategy for how to proceed. The attorney can also help you understand the potential consequences of a conviction and what you can do to minimize the impact on your life.
Return Stolen Merchandise
In many cases, the best way to get retail theft charges dropped is to simply return the merchandise to the store. Returning any stolen merchandise can often be seen as a way to make things right without going through the formal process of a trial. If the store is willing to accept the merchandise back, you may be able to avoid criminal charges altogether.
Avoid Any Repeated Offenses In The Future
Of course, if you are caught shoplifting again, the case against you will be a bit more difficult to overcome since this wouldn’t be the first time you are charged for retail theft. To avoid dealing with a more difficult case, simply avoid shoplifting! Doing so can help you avoid more severe consequences such as longer sentences and higher restitution costs.
Why Should You Hire A Criminal Attorney For Retail Theft & Shoplifting
If you are facing retail theft charges, it is important to hire a qualified criminal attorney to help you explore your options and fight for the best possible outcome. A criminal attorney can investigate the facts of your case and represent you in court, giving you the confidence you need that you will be well-represented. They will also work to get the charges against you dropped or reduced. Now, we will go over some other ways a criminal attorney can help you.
A Criminal Attorney Will Advise You
One way a criminal attorney can help you is by advising you. They have the experience and knowledge to advise you on the best course of action. They will know what options are available to you and what you should or should not say. If you don’t hire a criminal attorney, you will likely be confused on what to do next, which can result in it being extremely difficult to have those retail theft charges against you dropped. You may also end up saying something that is incriminating which can lead to the prosecutor giving you a longer sentence or harsher punishment than if you had the help of a criminal attorney.
Negotiating With The Prosecutor
This is where an experienced attorney can be extremely helpful. If the prosecutor knows that you have a strong defense, they may be more likely to offer a plea bargain. This is an agreement between you and the prosecutor in which you agree to plead guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a lighter sentence. This can be a good option if you’re facing a long jail sentence. In some cases, it may also be possible to get the charges reduced or dismissed entirely. This is often done in cases where the value of the merchandise is low or the defendant has no prior criminal history.
Get In Touch With An Experienced Criminal Attorney If Caught Shoplifting
If you find yourself facing retail theft charges, there are several options available to you. The best course of action will vary depending on the individual circumstances, but there is always one sure choice that can help you make the best out of the situation, and that is by hiring an experienced criminal attorney. With the help of a good attorney such as Carl Barkemeyer, Criminal Defense Attorney, you may be able to have the charges dropped or reduced. Reaching out to an attorney may lead to a clean record or a less severe sentence.
Contact the Barkemeyer Law Firm today regarding any criminal charges you may be facing. Whether you’ve been caught stealing or shoplifting or for something else, our Louisiana criminal law firm can help!
You should now have a better understanding of how to get shoplifting charges dropped and we wish you luck with your situation.
