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.
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