Shoplifting is no big deal, most people think. It’s a minor error. They are embarrassed and hope it will pass. But even petty theft can do serious harm. A skilled Kansas City traffic defense lawyer can protect you from irreversible damage.
The Hidden Cost of Petty Shoplifting
Shoplifting is not always harmless. Maybe you just plain forgot to pay for something. Or you took a little bit on purpose. Whatever, the law defines it as stealing. A conviction stays on your record. It can haunt you forever.
You might end up with:
- Fines that you cannot pay
- Community service
- Probation
- Repeat-offense jail time
- Trouble finding jobs or apartments
A lawyer intervenes to prevent these risks.
What to Expect After an Arrest
When you are arrested for shoplifting, the officers will cite you or arrest you. You may be held in jail for several hours. You are given a court date. Most people are scared and by themselves. They don’t know what to say or to do. Getting advice from a lawyer at first, before speaking with the court, avoids you making mistakes. You might feel that entering a guilty plea is the easy way out. It might have more drastic repercussions down the line, though.
A lawyer can pursue defenses, including:
- Mistake of fact
- Lack of intent
- Gatherings of evidence irregularities
Even when you actually did take the object, a lawyer can generally negotiate a better outcome.
See also: Justice After Loss: Talk to a Kansas City Wrongful Death Lawyer
Why Representing Yourself Can Go Badly
You do have the right to represent yourself. But judges do expect you to know the rules. Most people are not used to court proceedings. They don’t know how to make motions or how to handle the judge. You can say something that will destroy your case without even knowing it. You can agree to sanctions that you could have avoided. A Kansas City shoplifting lawyer who knows what they are doing knows the local courts. They can guide you every step of the way. They know what is available to you, like diversion programs.
Diversion Programs Can Keep You from Having a Record
The diversion or deferred prosecution is available in most counties. This is where you do some things, like:
- Paying restitution
- Taking classes
- Being trouble-free for a length of time
If you comply with all the conditions, your case can be dismissed. This keeps your record clear. An attorney helps you fill out a diversion. They can show why you are a good candidate. They help you with paperwork and deadlines too.
What a Conviction Does to Your Future
Even a small theft can keep you from:
- Getting hired
- Renting an apartment
- Borrowing loans
- Being licensed for a profession
Public records are screened by employers and landlords in some cases. Being charged with theft makes them question your honesty. That is why most people regret going without a lawyer. Your lawyer works to avoid or minimize these impacts. They can help you have records sealed if you qualify.
Special Risks for Students and Non-Citizens
If you are a student in college, theft charges can impact scholarships. You will typically get disciplined by schools. This may involve suspension or expulsion. If you are an alien, theft charges can impact your status. You may be deported or denied naturalization. A lawyer who handles shoplifting cases understands how to manage these risks. They stand to protect your rights on all levels.
Your Rights If You Are Accused of Shoplifting
You have rights at every turn:
- You don’t have to talk to police officers unless you have an attorney.
- You are entitled to a fair trial.
- You are entitled to see evidence against you.
- You are entitled to contest the gathering of evidence.
A lawyer helps you to assert these rights. They also ensure no one coerces you into unjust settlements.
Steps If You Have Been Charged with Shoplifting
If you find yourself charged, the following are important steps:
- Stay calm. Do not fight or quarrel.
- Seek legal advice. Do not give a comment on facts to the police.
- Attend all court hearings. Failure to show up for court can result in arrest.
- Copy all paperwork. This will help you keep yourself organized, such as citations and court subpoenas.
- Listen to your attorney. They best know how to defend you.
The Kansas City Shoplifting Attorney’s Work
Your attorney does more than talk in court. They:
- Read police reports and recordings
- Examine for mistakes in how you were stopped or searched
- Negotiate with prosecutors
- Work on diversion alternatives
- Prepare defenses
- Fight for the least severe sanctions
- Support with sealing or expunging records in the future
You feel confident knowing that you’ve got someone on your side.
How Legal Representation Can Save You Money
People think a lawyer’s fee is too high. But a conviction can cost you more in the long run. Fines, court fees, time off work, and higher insurance premiums all add up fast. Your attorney can bail you out of jail and reduce fines. Your record will be kept clean by a lawyer, protecting your future earnings.
Why It’s Better to Act Early
The sooner you consult with an attorney, the better your options. Waiting for court time can complicate it for you to build a solid defense. Acting early gives your attorney the opportunity to:
- Collect new evidence
- Interview witnesses
- Negotiate diversion or dismissal
Don’t wait. If you’ve been arrested, seek help right away.
FAQs
1. Can Kansas City shoplifting charges be dismissed?
Yes. Charges can be dismissed if there is no evidence, there are procedural problems, or diversion programs are an option for you.
2. Will shoplifting always show up on a background check?
If you’re found guilty, yes, it will. But if charges are dismissed or records are sealed, it may not appear. You can have an attorney represent you in petitioning for sealing or expungement.
3. Is shoplifting a misdemeanor or a felony?
It depends on the value of the item. The majority of less than $1,500 are misdemeanors. But previous cases or more money are felonies.
4. What if I just pay the store back?
Making restitution does not necessarily close the case. The criminal charges can still be brought forward. You would still have to see an attorney.
5. How much does a Kansas City shoplifting lawyer cost?
Fees vary from case to case. Most lawyers have a payment plan. Some offer free consultations to talk about fees and options.
Final Thoughts
A small case of shoplifting can turn into a large headache. An experienced Kansas City shoplifting lawyer is your best chance to save your record and your future. Don’t delay if you’re charged. Early help may make the difference.
