What You Need To Know About Shoplifting and Shoplifting Laws In California – California Penal Code Section 484

Although shoplifting may seem like a minor crime to most people and stores have gone to great lengths to ensure shoplifting prevention (such as hiring loss prevention officers), it can still have drastic effects on the life of someone accused of such an offense. For example, even for a first offense for shoplifting, shoplifting can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony in California (depending on the value of the goods taken). Penalties for shoplifting include possible jail time, stiff fines and fees, anti-shoplifting classes, and other punishments. But it doesn’t end there. Other “collateral” consequences can lead to serious problems.

For example, because shoplifting is considered a “crime of moral turpitude” by the government, a shoplifting arrest or conviction may lead to deportation if the shoplifter is not a U.S. citizen. Conviction on shoplifting charges may also negatively impact a person’s ability to get a job and may also result in the person being fired from his or her current job. There are many other possible collateral consequences depending on the particular facts of a case. This is why it is extremely important to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. The criminal defense attorneys at Wallin & Klarich will look at the unique facts of each case and help every client avoid many of the negative consequences that result from a shoplifting arrest or conviction.

The experienced criminal defense attorneys at Wallin & Klarich have been handling shoplifting cases for more than 40 years and will aggressively fight the charges on your behalf. In many cases reduced charges or a complete dismissal of charges is possible. Call Wallin & Klarich today at (888) 280-6839 to speak with one of our experienced criminal defense attorneys. We will be there when you call.