Lafayette Shoplifting Lawyer

Defending Against Shoplifting Charges in Louisiana

Facing shoplifting charges can be a daunting experience. At Precht Law Firm, our Lafayette shoplifting attorney is committed to providing strategic and aggressive representation for individuals accused of shoplifting offenses. With our experience and in-depth understanding of Louisiana's legal landscape, we strive to protect the rights and interests of our clients throughout the legal process.

Call Precht Law Firm today at (337) 201-9119 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our shoplifting attorney in Lafayette.

What is Shoplifting?

Shoplifting, also known as retail theft, is the action of unlawfully taking or attempting to take merchandise from a retail establishment without paying for it. Common examples include concealing items, altering price tags, or switching labels to pay a lower price. Shoplifting can occur in various forms, and the charges individuals face may vary based on factors such as the value of the stolen items, prior criminal history, and the presence of any aggravating circumstances.

What are the Penalties for Shoplifting in Louisiana?

Louisiana takes shoplifting offenses seriously, and the penalties for conviction can be severe. The severity of the consequences depends on factors such as the value of the stolen items and whether the individual has a prior criminal record.

Misdemeanor Shoplifting:

• For stolen items valued under $1,000, a first offense is typically considered a misdemeanor.
• Penalties may include fines, community service, probation, and mandatory anti-shoplifting programs.

Felony Shoplifting:

• Shoplifting items valued at $1,000 or more may lead to felony charges.
• Felony convictions carry harsher penalties, including substantial fines, imprisonment, and a lasting impact on one's criminal record.

Defenses Against Shoplifting Charges

Some common defenses against shoplifting charges may include:

• Lack of Intent: Proving that there was no intention to permanently deprive the store of the merchandise can be a viable defense strategy.
• Mistaken Identity: In some cases, individuals may be wrongfully accused due to mistaken identity. We can investigate the circumstances surrounding the arrest to uncover any errors or inaccuracies.
• Illegal Search and Seizure: If law enforcement violated the individual's constitutional rights during the arrest, evidence may be deemed inadmissible, leading to a potential dismissal of charges.
• Insufficient Evidence: Challenging the prosecution's evidence and demonstrating its insufficiency is a key aspect of our defense strategy.

Contact Our Shoplifting Attorney in Lafayette Today

Our Lafayette shoplifting lawyers at Precht Law Firm are here to provide the strong legal representation you need. Time is of the essence, so contact us as soon as possible. We understand the stress and uncertainty that accompany these charges, and we are dedicated to guiding you through the legal process with compassion and tenacity. Trust Precht Law Firm to be your ally in the fight against shoplifting charges.

Contact Precht Law Firm today to get started with our Lafayette shoplifting lawyer.