Tucson Shoplifting Defense Lawyer

Accused of Shoplifting in Tucson, AZ?

If you or a loved one has been charged with shoplifting in Tucson, it is important to seek the advice of a skilled criminal defense attorney. At Suzuki Law Offices, we have extensive experience in defending clients charged with shoplifting offenses and can provide the representation you need to protect your rights and defend your freedom.

Our shoplifting attorney has successfully defended clients charged with a wide range of shoplifting offenses, including:

• Concealment of merchandise
• Price tag switching
• Altering labels
• Removing shopping cart
• Shoplifting by employees

Shoplifting in Arizona

Shoplifting is a criminal offense that involves the unlawful taking of merchandise or goods from a retail store or establishment without paying for them. It is considered theft under the law and is a common property crime. Shoplifting can take various forms, including concealing items, altering price tags, switching labels, or simply walking out of a store with unpaid merchandise.

In Arizona, shoplifting is governed by state laws that set out the criminal penalties for this offense. The penalties for shoplifting in Arizona depend on several factors, including the value of the stolen goods and the defendant’s criminal history.

Shoplifting goods valued at less than $1,000 is typically charged as a Class 1 misdemeanor in Arizona. Penalties may include up to six months in jail and fines of up to $2,500.

Shoplifting goods valued between $1,000 and $2,000 is a Class 6 felony, while shoplifting property over $2,000 is a Class 5 felony.

Legal Defenses to Shoplifting

When facing shoplifting charges, it’s crucial to understand that there are several common legal defenses that a defendant can use to challenge the allegations. The effectiveness of these defenses can depend on the specific circumstances of the case.

Here are some common legal defenses to shoplifting charges:

• Lack of Intent: Shoplifting requires proof of intent to permanently deprive the store owner of their property. If the defendant can show that they did not intend to steal the item but accidentally left the store with it, it can be a viable defense. For example, if a shopper absentmindedly walks out with an item they forgot to pay for, it may not constitute shoplifting.
• Mistaken Identity: In some cases, a defendant may argue that they were wrongly identified as the shoplifter. This defense may be used if there is surveillance footage or witness testimony that does not definitively establish the defendant as the person responsible for the theft.
• Lack of Evidence: The prosecution must prove the elements of the shoplifting offense beyond a reasonable doubt. If there is insufficient evidence to support the charges, the defense can challenge the case on the basis of insufficient proof.
• Coerced Confession: If the defendant’s confession was obtained under duress, coercion, or without proper Miranda warnings, the defense can argue that the confession should be excluded as evidence.
• Owner’s Consent: If the defendant had permission from the store owner or an employee to take the item without payment, this can be a valid defense. For instance, if a store employee gave permission to the defendant to take an item for free, it may not constitute shoplifting.
• Age or Mental Capacity: If the defendant is a minor or has a mental condition that impairs their understanding of the consequences of their actions, it can be a defense. In some cases, juvenile offenders may be subject to different legal procedures and penalties.
• Illegal Search and Seizure: If law enforcement or store security engaged in an illegal search or seizure when investigating the alleged shoplifting, the defense can challenge the evidence obtained as a violation of the defendant’s Fourth Amendment rights.
• Entrapment: If the defendant can show that they were induced or coerced by law enforcement or store security to commit the theft, they may argue entrapment as a defense.
• Civil Compromise: In some jurisdictions, a civil compromise allows a defendant to make restitution to the store owner, and the charges may be dropped or reduced. This is more common for misdemeanor shoplifting cases.

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How We Can Defend You

Our experienced shoplifting attorney understands the serious consequences that a shoplifting conviction can have on your life. In addition to criminal penalties, such as fines, community service, and even jail time, a shoplifting conviction can also have long-lasting consequences, including damage to your reputation, difficulty finding employment, and loss of certain privileges.

At Suzuki Law Offices, we will work tirelessly to defend your rights and protect your future. Our shoplifting lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation of the facts surrounding your case, including reviewing any surveillance footage, questioning witnesses, and analyzing the evidence against you. We will then work to build a strong defense strategy tailored to your individual circumstances, with the goal of achieving the best possible outcome for your case.

If you have been charged with shoplifting in Tucson, don’t wait to seek legal representation. Contact Suzuki Law Offices today to schedule a free consultation with a skilled shoplifting lawyer who can help protect your rights and your future.