If you have been charged with shoplifting, or think you could be, you may be wondering what comes next. You may be feeling concerned or stressed about your present circumstances. You might have questions that require answers as well. Can you be arrested for shoplifting after leaving the store? How can a lawyer help you if you need to go to court?
At Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C., we have been practicing law for over 65 years, and we have extensive experience in criminal defense law. We have represented many clients in shoplifting cases. If you want to learn more about what you might face after being charged with shoplifting, keep reading for our complete breakdown.
Can You Be Arrested for Shoplifting After You Leave the Store?
Theoretically, it is still possible for you to be charged with shoplifting after you leave a store. This is because, even if you successfully leave the store without getting caught, employees may notice missing items and check camera footage to see who might have stolen them. Especially if you are seen hiding the product on the camera, you might be charged.
While it is uncommon, it is possible for you to be charged weeks or months after the fact. The store employees may get the police involved and you might be arrested. If you are concerned about this, consider seeking legal representation to reduce your potential consequences and return to a sense of normalcy as quickly as possible.
Consequences You Might Face if You are Charged With Shoplifting
If you have been charged with shoplifting, you may face a few different consequences if you are convicted. These penalties may include the following:
- Fines
- Jail time
- Community service
- Paying for the stolen merchandise
- Returning the merchandise
- Suspension
The severity of these penalties may depend on whether you are a repeat offender. If you would like to reduce or eliminate these consequences, you may want to hire a qualified criminal defense lawyer to represent you.
How Can a Pennsylvania Shoplifting Lawyer Help You?
If you have been charged with shoplifting, or think you might be, a lawyer may be able to help. Your qualified criminal defense lawyer may be able to assist you in the following ways:
- Legal talent
- Negotiation tactics
- Handle other legal representatives
- Reduce or eliminate your consequences
- Collect and analyze evidence
- Build a strong defense for your case
- Provide you with helpful resources
- Strategize the next best steps
Any time you are involved in legal proceedings, please refrain from representing yourself. Your lawyer is far more likely to favorably represent your side of the story and reduce your consequences.
Protect Your Rights With Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C. Pennsylvania Shoplifting Lawyers
If you have been charged with shoplifting, we at Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C. may be able to help. We have been practicing criminal defense law for over 65 years, and we have represented many clients with shoplifting cases. If you are looking for reduced consequences and successful results, we practice award-winning criminal defense law in Pennsylvania.
We have strong skills, strategies, and resources that may be useful during your legal proceedings. If you think we might be a good fit for your legal case, please feel free to get in touch with us. You can contact us by calling (215) 822-7575 or completing our contact form at your convenience.
