Shoplifting Lawyer Orange County
Shoplifting Lawyer Orange County
If you or someone you know is facing a shoplifting charge in Orange County, California, it’s important to understand the legal elements of the case and what penalties may be imposed by a court. It is also important to consider hiring a shoplifting lawyer who can help guide you through this process. In this blog post, we will discuss the legal definition of shoplifting and the various penalties for a first-time offense as well as cases involving prior convictions. We will also explore available diversion programs and why you should consider hiring an experienced shoplifting lawyer in Orange County.
What is shoplifting
In California, shoplifting is defined as entering any commercial establishment with the intent to steal merchandise worth less than $950. This includes taking merchandise without paying for it, altering price tags or UPC labels, transferring items from one container to another, or switching price tags on items. It also includes hiding merchandise with the intent to later take it out of the store without paying for it.
Legal Elements in a Shoplifting Case
In order for a conviction to stand, prosecutors must prove certain elements beyond a reasonable doubt. These include that the accused had intent to deprive the store owner of their property permanently and that he/she had committed all necessary acts required to commit theft (such as walking out of the store without paying). Prosecutors must also prove that the defendant was aware that their actions constituted theft and knew what they were doing was wrong at the time of the incident.
Penalties for Shoplifting in Orange County, CA
The penalty for shoplifting depends on several factors such as the value of goods stolen and whether there are any prior convictions on record. Generally speaking, shoplifters face misdemeanor charges punishable by up to 6 months in county jail and/or fines up to $1,000 plus restitution fees paid directly to store owners for stolen property. In more serious cases involving multiple offenses or theft of goods valued at more than $950 – defendants may face felony charges which carry much stiffer sentences including possible state prison time depending on the circumstances surrounding the case.
Diversion Programs for First-Time Offenders
California offers several “diversion” programs designed specifically for first-time offenders charged with misdemeanor crimes such as shoplifting. These programs allow offenders to complete various court-mandated tasks like community service or attending counseling sessions instead of serving jail time or paying hefty fines associated with conviction – upon successful completion, all charges are dismissed by the court. For individuals who meet certain criteria, these programs can be extremely beneficial; however, they should not be entered into lightly since failure to complete requirements could result in harsher penalties being imposed by the judge upon a final sentencing hearing.
Increased Penalties for Prior Convictions
As mentioned above – individuals charged with repeat offenses may face increased penalties even if the value of goods stolen has not changed significantly since the previous crime was committed; this is due primarily because criminal background checks are now routinely conducted before sentencing hearings allowing judge access to past convictions when deciding sentence length/amounts associated with current case under consideration. Individuals facing repeat offenses should contact an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately so they can prepare necessary legal arguments before the hearing date arrives; this increases the chances that the individual will receive the most lenient sentence possible given the circumstances associated with the case at hand.
Why you should hire shoplifting lawyer in Orange County
A skilled criminal defense attorney can help ensure your rights are protected throughout the entire process from the initial arraignment hearing through the final sentencing date; not only does hiring a qualified attorney increase the chances that individual will receive the fairest possible outcome based on facts presented but a lawyer can also provide necessary emotional support during trying times. Additionally, attorneys may be able to negotiate reduced sentences on behalf defendant depending severity crime committed; these negotiations often involve discussing alternative punishments such as house arrest probation instead of jail time. Finally, having an experienced lawyer handle your case allows additional peace of mind knowing someone knowledgeable and working hard to ensure the best possible outcome given the facts associated particular situation.
Looking to hire a shoplifting lawyer in Orange County then Vahadat Law Firm is the best option to file a shoplifting case. He has a long history of winning cases. Visit our law office or call us at (877) 698-2545.