Shoplifting is considered a theft crime in Torrance. You can face fines and time in jail if you are convicted of shoplifting. While this charge is not considered as serious as a burglary in most cases, it’s important you get fast help after you are arrested.
The Simmrin Law Group can get to work on your defense right now. Our shoplifting lawyers in Torrance understand your legal needs and they’re ready to fight for you in and out of the courtroom. Get professional help on your side now by calling us.
Shoplifting as a Theft Crime in Torrance
You can face misdemeanor or felony charges if you are accused of shoplifting in Torrance. You will be charged under Penal Code Section 495.5 for shoplifting offenses. Per PC 495.5, individuals engage in shoplifting if they:
- Go into a business
- While the business is open
- Intending to carry out larceny
Larceny is a term used to describe acts of theft. Therefore, shoplifting just involves entering a business during operating hours to take something that you did not pay for. In most cases, you only face shoplifting charges if you are accused of taking items worth less than $950.
For a free legal consultation with a lawyer serving Torrance, call (310) 896-2723
Penalties for Shoplifting Convictions in Torrance
As we mentioned, shoplifting can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or a felony in the state of California. A first-time offense for shoplifting is almost always treated as a misdemeanor. However, you may be charged with a felony if you were:
- Previously convicted of a violent felony
- Previously convicted of some sex crimes
A misdemeanor conviction for shoplifting may result in:
- Fines of up to $1,000
- Jail time of up to six months
Felony charges lead to more serious penalties, including:
- Fines of up to $10,000
- Prison time of up to three years
A criminal defense lawyer in Torrance can help you deal with both misdemeanor and felony shoplifting charges. Improve your chances of handling a shoplifting allegation by calling us right now.
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Comparing Shoplifting and Burglary in Torrance
Shoplifting involves entering a business to take items that were not purchased. This is very similar to the description for burglary, which can involve entering a business with the intent to commit a felony or petty theft. As such, there may be some confusion between shoplifting and burglary charges.
Burglary charges are more likely to be used if someone enters a building outside of business hours, or if they take something that is not sold by the business. Additionally, taking items worth more than $950 may lead to burglary charges.
Burglary if generally punished more harshly than shoplifting. However, felony shoplifting and burglary charges are very similar to one another. Both can lead to three years of time in prison.
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Get Legal Help Handling Torrance Shoplifting Charges
You can get professional assistance handling a shoplifting charge in Torrance by reaching out to the professionals at the Simmrin Law Group. Our team of theft crimes lawyers can work fast to help with all aspects of your case. We may be able to:
- Block evidence that could be used against you
- Assess any plea bargains offered by the prosecution
- Protect your rights from prosecutors and law enforcement officers
- Get your charges reduced or even dismissed
Getting help quickly after a shoplifting arrest can increase your odds of successfully resolving the charges. Speak to a legal expert today about your needs if you are accused of a theft crime in Torrance.
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Defenses for Shoplifting in Torrance, CA
A shoplifting lawyer in Torrance can assess your unique needs to build your defense. The experts at the Simmrin Law Group may be able to demonstrate that:
- You took items from a store by accident
- You only took merchandise that you paid for
- You didn’t intentionally steal anything
We may also be able to argue that you were falsely accused of shoplifting. Sometimes, business owners believe innocent shoppers engage in shoplifting due to a case of mistaken identity. Allow us to dig into the facts surrounding your case to provide you with a personalized defense to shoplifting charges in Torrance.
Call a Shoplifting Lawyer in Torrance for Help Now
You don’t have to take on a shoplifting allegation in Torrance on your own. The team at the Simmrin Law Group can provide you with help when you need it the most. Reach out to our shoplifting lawyers in Torrance today by calling or filling out our online contact form.
We can offer you a FREE consultation to review all of your legal options after you are arrested for shoplifting in Torrance.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form