Fresno Shoplifting Attorney

Defending Clients Who Are Facing Shoplifting Charges in Fresno County

A shoplifting charge can be incredibly stressful and daunting for anyone, which is why our team at The Law Office of Brian C. Andritch is here to help. Our shoplifting lawyers in Fresno are dedicated to protecting your rights and providing you with experienced legal representation when you need it most.

Call The Law Office of Brian C. Andritch today at (559) 484-2112 or contact us online to request a consultation with our shoplifting lawyer in Fresno.

What is Considered Shoplifting?

Shoplifting, also known as retail theft, is the act of taking merchandise from a store without paying for it. This offense encompasses various actions, such as concealing items, altering price tags, or switching packaging to pay a lower price. Even the intention to commit these acts can lead to shoplifting charges.

Shoplifting can take various forms, including:

• Concealment: Hiding items in clothing, bags, or other personal belongings with the intent to leave the store without paying.
• Price Switching: Altering or switching price tags to pay a lower price than the item's actual value.
• Under-Ringing: Manipulating the checkout process by intentionally scanning items at a lower price than their actual value.
• Walkout Theft: Leaving the store without making any attempt to pay for the merchandise.

What are the Penalties for Shoplifting in California?

In California, shoplifting is a criminal offense that can result in severe consequences. Penalties for shoplifting depend on various factors, including the value of the stolen merchandise, any prior criminal record, and whether the defendant has committed similar offenses before.

The potential penalties for shoplifting can include:

• Misdemeanor Charges: For merchandise valued at less than $950, a defendant may face misdemeanor charges, punishable by fines of up to $1,000 and up to 6 months in county jail.

Additionally, those convicted of shoplifting may also be ordered to pay restitution to the store for the value of the stolen merchandise.

Defenses Against Shoplifting Charges

At The Law Office of Brian C. Andritch, our team can explore various defense strategies tailored to your unique situation. Some potential defenses include:

• Mistaken Identity: Proving that you were not the person involved in the alleged shoplifting incident.
• Lack of Intent: Demonstrating that you had no intention to steal or shoplift the merchandise.
• False Accusations: Uncovering evidence that the store's personnel made false accusations or misunderstood the situation.
• Illegal Search and Seizure: Challenging the legality of the search that led to the discovery of the stolen items.

Contact Our Shoplifting Lawyer in Fresno Today

If you're facing shoplifting charges in Fresno, it's important to seek legal representation as soon as possible. The repercussions of a shoplifting conviction can be long-lasting and impact various aspects of your life. Our Fresno shoplifting lawyers are here to fight for your rights and help you navigate through this challenging time. Your future is our priority.

Contact The Law Office of Brian C. Andritch today to get started with our Fresno shoplifting attorney.