Have you been charged with shoplifting and are worried about what will happen? A shoplifting charge is a fairly common charge for people in the Spokane area, but a conviction can still mess up your future. If the amount allegedly taken is less than $750, then the charge is Theft Third Degree, and the penalty can be up to a year in jail and a $5,000 fine.
Enhanced Charges
Sometimes the prosecutor presents enhanced charges such as when a struggle with store security ensues and then the charges can be upgraded to robbery. Also, if the defendant has been told not to enter the store before, then the prosecutor might try to raise the charges to burglary. This can bring longer jail times and higher fines as well as a felony on your record.
Conviction Avoidance Programs
Washington law allows for certain court or jail “diversionary” programs aimed at keeping the first time accused out of the system. With these, a criminal or civil compromise agreement is made with the defendant and the store, and after meeting certain conditions such as repayment, maybe community service, the court will dismiss the charges.
This may or may not be available for your case, but we can listen to you in a free consultation and then provide you with the options that will fit your needs.
Choosing an Attorney
At Crary, Clark, Domanico, & Chuang, P.S., we have defense attorneys who can help you once you’ve been charged with shoplifting. You need someone who is going to look at your situation and help you get the best result under your specific circumstances.
We strongly feel that making one mistake shouldn’t ruin your life, and we recognize that there are many reasons why someone shoplifts and rarely is it because they just want the object and didn’t want to pay for it. It can be depression, substance abuse, peer pressure, threats or duress, poor family relationships, or many other reasons.
Don’t let one stupid mistake derail your future. Contact us today.
Contact a Shoplifting Attorney Today
Getting the right attorney is important once you’ve been charged with a crime. You need someone who will work hard for you and look at the specific circumstances of your case. Some attorneys talk a big talk, but in the end they take your money and just “leave it up to the process.”
At Crary, Clark, Domanico, & Chuang, P.S., we will represent you with the passion and hard work that you deserve. If you’re innocent and you feel like you’re being railroaded by the system, or if you’ve done something wrong but not what you’ve been charged with, then you need a firm that remembers why we have a Constitution that protects your rights and is willing to put those right to work for you.
