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.
-
“I can genuinely say that if you want someone that will fight till the end and support you every second of the way, than Albert is your person. After a long case together I got to know Albert and he his very passionate about his work. He his hardworking, witty, funny, and downright an amazing lawyer. I was truly blessed to take the leap and trust him with my case because the outcome was the best situation possible and I will forever be grateful to him. I think the most important thing is, is that when he makes a promise, he will go above and beyond to make that happen. He is a person that refuses to take no for an answer. If anything was to happen again, I would never hesitate to call him instantly. He works constantly around the clock, and is there for your every need. I promise you that if you decide to have Albert as your lawyer, it will be the best decision you have ever made. Thank you Albert!”- Skyler
-
“Mr.Guadagno is very professional, friendly , attentive and very supportive when you face a difficult situation. Gave you support and comfort makes you feel you have someone who really cares and is there to help you. Always available to reach regardless if it is week days or weekend. Response to you immediately and works with you. We really really appreciate his support in a time we were stressed out he gave us so much comfort. Really recommend him to others. Grateful to know him .”- Adiba
-
“Albert really goes above and beyond to not only treat you as a client - but as a human. He listens to your situation, tries to understand from different sides, and lets you know what to expect honestly without sugar-coating. His year’s of experience in law really helps you navigate a, sometimes, convoluted legal system with confidence affordably and with careful attention to detail. Highly recommend.”- Kienan
-
“Albert Guadagno is without a doubt professional and courteous as a lawyer as I've ever met. Took care of my issues and made sure that I stayed straight with my court dates. I would highly recommend Albert for any legal or just regular advice situation. I really feel blessed for having to meet him and for him to help me with my situation.”- Dustin
-
“This is a very trust worthy and professional institution. They treat you like an individual and gets results which is what matters in the end! They fight tooth and nail for you. Highly highly recommend!”- Esther
-
“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
-
“Albert was wonderful throughout the entire legal process. He was always very quick to respond and was very thorough.”- KB
-
“Alberto was incredible at helping me get this reduced to a traffic infraction and the fine greatly reduced.”- Former Client
-
“I can't say enough about the services I received from the Guadagno law, PLLC. After asking around with several other law groups, Albert responded quickly and walked me through the whole process from start to finish. Here I am more than two years later and he's still bending over backwards for me. He promised he'd be there for me all the way through the case and hasn't let me down. I would highly recommend.”- Samuel
