Olathe Shoplifting Lawyer
Defending Against Shoplifting Charges in Kansas
Shoplifting can lead to very serious legal consequences, and it is crucial to have an experienced Olathe shoplifting lawyer by your side to protect your future. The Law Office of John Harvell is committed to defending your rights and providing professional legal counsel when it comes to these charges. We are here to help you navigate the legal system, build a solid defense, and strive for the best possible outcome in your case.
Call The Law Office of John Harvell today at (888) 879-7087 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our shoplifting attorney in Olathe.
What is Shoplifting?
Shoplifting, often referred to as retail theft, is considered a criminal act involving the unlawful taking of merchandise from a retail store without the consent of the store owner. This offense can take many forms, including:
- Concealment: When a person hides items with the intent to steal them.
- Alteration of Price Tags: Switching or manipulating price tags to pay less than the actual value of the merchandise.
- Walking out without Payment: Leaving the store with merchandise without making a legal purchase.
- Collaboration: Working with others to engage in shoplifting, which can lead to more severe charges.
What are the Penalties for Shoplifting in Kansas?
The penalties for shoplifting in Kansas can be substantial and life-altering. If you are convicted, you may face consequences such as:
- Criminal Record: A shoplifting conviction can result in a permanent criminal record, which can impact your employment, housing, and other aspects of your life.
- Fines: Depending on the value of the stolen items, you may be subject to fines. These fines can vary from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
- Probation: You may be placed on probation, which can include strict conditions such as counseling, community service, or regular check-ins with a probation officer.
- Jail Time: Shoplifting convictions can lead to imprisonment, with sentences varying based on the seriousness of the offense.
- Civil Liability: In addition to criminal penalties, you may also face civil liability, which means the store can sue you for damages in civil court.
- Loss of Reputation: A shoplifting conviction can tarnish your reputation and make it challenging to secure employment or housing in the future.
Defenses Against Shoplifting Charges
Some common defenses against shoplifting charges may include:
- Lack of Intent: Shoplifting requires the intent to steal. If it can be shown that you did not intend to take the merchandise without paying, you may have a viable defense.
- Mistaken Identity: In some cases, individuals are wrongfully accused of shoplifting. We can work to prove that you were not the person involved in the alleged theft.
- Improper Search and Seizure: If law enforcement or store security personnel violated your rights during the search and seizure process, evidence obtained may be inadmissible in court.
- Value of Stolen Items: The value of the stolen merchandise plays a crucial role in determining the severity of charges. Challenging the valuation can impact the potential penalties you face.
- Criminal Record Expungement: If you have a prior shoplifting conviction, your attorney can explore options for expungement or record sealing to mitigate the impact on your life.
Contact Our Shoplifting Attorney in Olathe Today
The consequences of a shoplifting conviction can be severe, and you deserve a strong defense. At The Law Office of John Harvell, we are here to provide you with experienced legal representation and work diligently to protect your rights. Our Olathe shoplifting lawyer will review your case, discuss your legal options, and create a tailored defense strategy designed to reach the best possible result for your situation.
Contact The Law Office of John Harvell today to get started with our Olathe shoplifting lawyer.