Shoplifting is a term often used to describe when a person intends to steal or steals an item from a store. However, shoplifting can also involve switching labels or tags on an item to get the item for less money or illegally taking items from your place of work that were entrusted to you.
Another common term for shoplifting is petty theft. Petty theft is considered a misdemeanor for the first offense if the item that was stolen retails under $950. The consequences associated with a conviction include fines, probation and/or a maximum sentence of one year in jail. If you are convicted of petty theft for a second time, the charge can either be a misdemeanor or felony. Obviously, the felony charge carries stiffer penalties including up to 16 months in prison.
If a person shoplifts an item that is valued over $950, the charge is then Grand Theft. Grand theft can be considered a misdemeanor or felony. Again, serious consequences are associated with a misdemeanor conviction of grand theft including up to 1 year in jail. However, you face 16 months, two years, or three years in county jail if you are convicted of felony grand theft.
It is important to contact an experienced Los Angeles theft criminal defense attorney if you or a loved one is facing either petty theft or grand theft charges. An experienced Wallin & Klarich Criminal Defense attorney can ensure that your rights are protected and work aggressively on your defense. Call 1-888-280-6839 to speak to one of Wallin & Klarich’s aggressive and experienced criminal defense attorneys in California today. Also visit us on the web at www.wklaw.com.
