Despite its name, petty theft is anything but small. Getting hit with a shoplifting accusation is serious, and it’s important to fully understand your situation and take the right steps towards a legal resolution. Though petty theft involves the theft of an item with relatively low value, it’s classified as a misdemeanor, which leaves a mark on your record and can result in fines or even a few years in prison. Other examples of actions that can be prosecuted for petty theft include:
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Being an accomplice to a friend who is shoplifting by distracting employees
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Altering price tags on items
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Switching the packaging of items so that you are charged for the item of lesser value
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“Dine and dash” or eating in a restaurant and leaving without paying the check
Why You Need a Lawyer
In Los Angeles, consulting a petty theft attorney at a firm like Criminal Defense Inc. should be your first step if you find yourself on the receiving end of any of these accusations. They understand the law, and help you get the best possible outcome for your particular situation. If this is your first offense, you’re likely to get a much more lenient sentence if convicted. But if you’re a repeat offender, have other marks on your record, or are an immigrant, having a lawyer on your side is necessary. Make sure you are honest with your lawyer about the situation and what happened on your side of the story so that they are better equipped to review and present your case.
A petty theft attorney in Los Angeles could be the only thing standing between you and prison time. If you’ve been accused of a crime, don’t hesitate to contact a lawyer for a consultation to understand your options and the ins and outs of your situation. Your livelihood and future could be affected by the outcome.
