If you have been arrested for shoplifting, you need to think about what this could do to your life. Although a shoplifting conviction may not seem like that big of deal, especially in comparison to murder to homicide, petty shoplifting is still considered a misdemeanor offense and can result in up to 90 days in prison and/or a fine of $1,000. Furthermore, you will most likely have a hard time moving on once you have served your punishment. You may have difficulties finding a decent job, letting an apartment and obtaining a loan; after all, employers, landlords, credit bureaus and professional associations are all able to access your criminal record and uncover your shoplifting offense. And, furthermore, they most likely will not be interested in the value of the item that was stolen, whether it was your first offense, or even if it was an accident. A permanent shoplifting conviction, no matter how minor, can and will ruin your chance of success in the future.
Roseville Shoplifting Lawyer and Expungement
If you have been arrested for shoplifting, you may seem like the cheapest and easiest option is to accept a guilty plea, serve your sentence and then ask for expungement at a later date. However, the reality is, full expungement after a guilty plea for shoplifting is not possible. Instead, a better option is to ensure that your shoplifting arrest does not make it to your permanent record in the first place. This is where a Roseville shoplifting lawyer comes in.
I’ve been Charged with Shoplifting – What’s Next?
Been arrested for shoplifting and wondering what to do next? First, you should immediately retain the services of a qualified Roseville criminal defense attorney with a proven track record. Martin S. Azarian Criminal Defense, P.A. has been defending shoplifting clients for over 22 years and almost 100% of his clients walk away with their theft charges dismissed. Even if you are guilty, it is important to speak to a lawyer about your best defense strategy. There are ways to keep this offense off your criminal record but you cannot do it alone.
Going to court and trying to talk your way out of it will not help. Anything you say in court will be used against you. Trying to explain to the judge what you did is useless and can only end up costing you more than it’s worth. The judge cannot help you; he cannot dismiss your case and cannot give you advice. The judge is only interested in two things: a guilty or not guilty plea. Trying to explain the situation yourself can actually end up harming your case and ensuring you walk away with a guilty verdict. This is something all shoplifting clients want to avoid.
The Consequences of a Shoplifting Conviction
A theft conviction of your permanent record can negatively impact your entire life, more than you may realize. No matter how minor the offense is, you will always have to explain your conviction to potential employers, landlords, credit bureaus, colleges and professional associations, and, in most instances, they do not care about the background behind the conviction. They see a shoplifting conviction and that’s all they see. And, in today’s tough society, a shoplifting conviction can make all the difference between a “yes” and a “no.” Once you are on the criminal background check database, you are on it for life.
The key is to avoid this criminal record now to protect your future.
Shoplifting convictions do destroy lives, even though they are considered a misdemeanor is most instances. One small mistake and you could be facing a lifetime of problems. However, don’t make another mistake and try to fight this conviction alone- call Martin S. Azarian Criminal Defense, P.A. and get the legal representation you need.
Roseville Theft Lawyers and Criminal Defense Attorneys
If you or someone you love has been arrested for shoplifting in Roseville, then you want to make sure you have an experienced lawyer in your corner. The Law Firm of Martin S. Azarian Criminal Defense, P.A. can provide you with the confidence that you have the best Roseville criminal defense attorney on your side. Martin Azarian doesn’t farm out your case to a lesser, experienced attorney. He does not have “just admitted” attorneys on his staff, or inexperienced attorneys in his office. You can be 100% confident in your Roseville shoplifting attorney. Give Martin S. Azarian Criminal Defense, P.A. a call today at 952-451-4987 for your free initial telephone consultation and see how his representation can make all the difference to your case.