Theft and shoplifting
A first theft charge doesn't have to become a record
Shoplifting and theft cases are often decided by value, by what the store's staff did, and by whether the court offers a way to resolve it without a conviction.
- 01
Check the value
The amount decides whether it's a petty offense, a misdemeanor or a felony. Stores often count the full price, not what was actually taken.
- 02
Look at the detention
Store staff may hold someone only in limited ways. What they said and did, and the video, can matter.
- 03
Ask about diversion
Many first charges can be resolved with a class or restitution and then dismissed. We ask for it early.
- 04
Answer the civil demand letter
Stores sometimes send a separate letter asking for money. We'll tell you whether you have to pay it.
The fee
Most theft charges have one flat fee
Felony theft, by value or by record, is quoted after the first review.
Theft or shoplifting, misdemeanor
One theft or shoplifting charge in county or municipal court. Paid in three parts over 60 days.
Discovery requested and read, video included
Every court date up to a plea or dismissal
An answer to any civil demand letter
Video meetings whenever you need one
Felony theft
The value, or your record, changes the charge and the court, so we read the file first and quote it in writing before you pay.
Our fees pay for legal work. Court filing fees, lab retests, expert witnesses, transcripts and bond are costs paid to others, and we name each one with its amount before it's spent. A trial is quoted as its own flat fee once a trial date is set.
Questions about a theft charge
Do I have to pay the store's letter?
Not always, and paying it doesn't end the criminal case. Bring the letter to the call and we'll go through it.
Will an employer see this?
An open charge can appear on background checks. A dismissal followed by sealing is usually the cleanest end, and we plan for it from the start.
I'm not a citizen. Is a theft plea risky?
It can be. Theft can carry immigration consequences, so we check them before you accept any offer.
Talk to us before your first court date
Diversion is easiest to get when it's asked for early.