Seattle Theft Crime Lawyers
Have You Been Accused of Shoplifting in Seattle? Call Us Today at 206-895-6800!
In the state of Washington, if you are accused of theft from a store, then you can be charged in court with shoplifting. Shoplifting cases are taken very seriously and can have long-term consequences if convicted. Penalties for shoplifting can come with fines and incarceration, meaning that you need an aggressive defense lawyer to help you fight back against these charges.
In Seattle, shoplifting is one of the most common forms of theft that the defense attorneys at Guadagno Law, PLLC see come through their doors. If you or a loved one has been accused of shoplifting, or any other theft crime, schedule your FREE consultation with our team today.
Can a Store Search My Bag?
However, only with your consent. You must consent to a bag search before a shop owner or employee can conduct one. In a bag search, the searcher looks inside your bag and empties its contents.
Does a Shoplifter Have to Leave the Store?
It is possible for a defendant to commit shoplifting without leaving the store. All he needs to do is move the property and exercise control over it in a way that contradicts the shop owner's reasonable expectations about how shoppers will treat items.
Our Seattle shoplifting attorneys are ready to handle your case. Call us today at 206-895-6800.
What are the Penalties for Shoplifting in Seattle?
In order to prove that you were shoplifting, two elements must be proven. First, you must have willingly taken the items offered for sale into your possession or concealed them with the intention of deceit and second, you must have intended to deprive the store owner of the payment of the item. If, for example, you forgot to scan an item at the grocery store, it may not be considered shoplifting.
Washington law provides penalties for shoplifting crimes depending on the value of the item taken and certain types of property that are protected under law:
- First Degree Theft: 14 years in prison and a $20,000 fine.
- Second Degree Theft: Five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
- Third Degree Theft: One year in jail and a $5,000 fine.
Some common ways someone can be accused of shoplifting include:
- Leaving a store without paying for an item
- Switching price tags to pay a lesser price for the item
Working with an experienced Seattle shoplifting attorney can help you reduce or eliminate the charges you are facing. At Guadagno Law, PLLC, we fight for you until the end.
Understanding Your Rights When Accused of Shoplifting
Being accused of shoplifting can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. It's important to know your rights and understand the legal process when facing these charges. Our team of experienced Seattle theft crime lawyers at Guadagno Law, PLLC, is here to stand by your side and provide the legal guidance and support you need during this challenging time.
Some important things to consider when accused of shoplifting include:
- Knowing your rights when confronted by store security
- Understanding the potential penalties and consequences of a shoplifting charge
- Seeking legal representation to protect your rights and build a strong defense
- Exploring options for resolving the charges and minimizing the impact on your future
Don't face shoplifting charges alone.
Real People. Real Stories.
Read our reviews from past clients we've helped.
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“This man is an angel, I’m so grateful that I stumbled upon him. From the first phone call I had with him before even meeting with him, he showed compassion and understanding and made it a lot less stressful. He truly puts his everything into his job and goes above and beyond for his clients. You will not regret choosing him as your lawyer. I will always look at him as a friend. Якщо ви шукаєте адвоката, алберть сами найкращий він все на лучше вам зробить.”- Kat
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“Was really nervous going into my case, until I met Albert. And he literally walks you step by step, And doesn’t change the subject until you fully understand what’s going on! You can literally call him anytime with any questions and he will help you out with no hesitation. By far the best lawyer out there. Thanks again for everything Albert!”- S. K.
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“Working with Albert was an absolute blessing. He really takes the time to get to know you so he can truly make a defense from your corner. Our phone calls were always filled with laughs to help ease the painful situation. He's brilliant and easy to trust. I would always recommend him again and again.”- A. G.
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“To start off, When I first needed an attorney I was extremely stressed, scared, confused, and almost lost. Finding Albert has been an extreme blessing. To say he is amazing, is an understatement. He’s met all my expectations and more. The weight he took off my back is immaculate. Not only that, I was looking at prison time. Now I’m looking at NO prison or NO jail time. He really is the best person and lawyer. I could go on and on about the the amazing work of this man. HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend!”- Brittney S
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“Even though there where countless court appearances and a lot more involved than anyone had anticipated, Albert continued to work tirelessly towards a positive outcome for me.”- A
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“This is an attorney with heart as well as expertise and even speaks plain English about the legal process. Happy to help even in my free brief consultation. I was having nerve issues with my health but hesitated to bother my public defender. Albert cared about me, not just the billable hour. I know I have an attorney to help me on the future.”- Helped me make a plan to avoid losing my home after domestic dispute. Thank you!
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“I contacted Albert after not receiving the service from a previous lawyer that I had paid in full. I sought second council because this was my second DUI with obstruction and resisting arrest charges. I am a good person whom made a poor choice. He took my case with the clock ticking to the last possible second before the bomb would've went off and I'd have no other choice but jail, loss of license, job. He recommended a deferred prosecution in which is intense but clears your record and as long as you do your part you can move on with your life. We were facing one of the toughest judges in Snohomish county who threatened to not grant a deferred. When we went to court to enter in a deferred the judge actually apologized to us for a small clerical error! Then the DOL problems because they have updated their system that comes with a series of problems, he has been stead fast to get to the superiors at DOL to gain my driving privileges back actually in better standing that we initially thought or were told via letters from that department. He's experienced with handling the current DOL issues and is quick to resolve. Great guy, great council. Hire him, you'll be on your way to the next chapter of your life.”- Arnold P.
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“I was so scared going into this situation, but he eased my mind right from the start, and I immediately knew I wanted to work with him.”- Former Client
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“Albert helped resolve an almost hopeless case with the best possible results. He had my boyfriend out of custody and the case resolved in a week and a half. Albert is very professional, very helpful and always available to answer our calls and numerous questions. I would highly recommend Albert and if I ever need an attorney again he will be the first person I call!”- Erin
