Shoplifting Defense Attorney

Shoplifting Lawyer in Shreveport

Are you considering hiring a Shreveport shoplifting lawyer? When facing charges of shoplifting, you need to hire a lawyer that is familiar with the court system in your area. In this article, you will learn how to choose the right shoplifting lawyer for your case.

Choosing a shoplifting lawyer is crucial, as you could face serious consequences, such as up to 6 months in jail. Also, you’ll learn how to get your record expunged, a good lawyer’s fees, and much more.

Six months in jail

Misdemeanors that include shoplifting can carry a prison sentence of up to six months, but first-time offenders often face a less harsh punishment. If the merchandise you stole is under $1000, you will probably be charged with misdemeanor theft under La. R.S. 14:67. But, if you have been caught more than twice, your sentence could be much harsher. In Louisiana, you may face a felony charge that carries up to 2 years in prison. Misdemeanor theft charges build the more convictions you get. That is why we try to prevent the conviction in the first place, if possible.

Penalties for shoplifting depend on the value of the items stolen, the number of items you snatched, and whether you’ve been convicted of a similar crime in the past. A first-time offense involving stolen merchandise that’s worth less than $1000 can carry a fine of as little as $500 and up to 6 months in jail. But if you steal a firearm or other stolen property, you’ll face a second-degree felony, which carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Expungement of criminal record

Expungement is a process that can erase your criminal record, allowing you to begin a new life. Having a minor mistake on your criminal record can prevent you from getting the job you want. Employers often run background checks on job applicants and small incidents may show up on these searches, making you look bad. However, an expungement process can make all that clear.

Before you can begin the expungement process, you must first get approval from the court that heard your shoplifting case. Then, you must submit an expungement packet that includes a background check and a copy of your docket report. Expungement fees are $550. The fee is split among several Louisiana agencies. If you have a criminal record for shoplifting, it is important to hire a qualified attorney who can help you through this process.

Expungement can be obtained if your crime is nonviolent and does not involve violence or sex. Nonviolent misdemeanor arrests should not prevent you from getting into law school, getting an insurance broker’s license, or even getting a job. You are not required to disclose the expungement process to employers, but it is an option.

Expunging a criminal record for shoplifting is an important step for future opportunities. An arrest is still on your background check, and it doesn’t matter if the charges were dismissed or if you’ve been cleared of the crime. If an employer finds out you were caught shoplifting, they might ask you to explain why you were caught. You may not have to explain yourself in detail to them, but it will impact your career.

Expungement can help you with employment opportunities and a better life in general. By expunging your criminal record, you can look forward to an improved future. Employers and landlords often perform background checks on potential tenants and applicants. Expungement can help you get the job you want and the peace of mind you need. However, it is important to remember that a criminal record can hinder your future and will not disappear overnight.

Cost of hiring a lawyer

Hiring a shoplifting lawyer in Shreveport LA will cost you anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000, depending on the charges. Whether you settle or go to trial, your lawyer will explain the court process and possible punishments. You may also pay a retainer up front. Our shoplifting attorneys have relationships with judges and prosecutors in Shreveport, Webster, and Bossier. 

Hiring a shoplifting lawyer is critical if you are facing shoplifting charges in Shreveport. While some store owners will drop the charges once you have paid back the items, others will drag you through the court system. In either case, a lawyer can help you get a reduced charge or even convince the store owner not to press charges. The cost of hiring a lawyer for shoplifting in Shreveport is relatively affordable.

A shoplifting lawyer is crucial for your case because of the possible penalties you face. For example, the store owner may lie about the value of the item, but a lawyer can argue that it was less than $1000. This defense can help you avoid jail time, and save your reputation. Further, your shoplifting lawyer may be able to negotiate for lesser punishments. The cost of hiring a lawyer for shoplifting in Shreveport depends on your specific case.

An experienced attorney may be able to negotiate the charges and sentences that are handed out. However, our lawyers will always go the extra mile to protect our client. You should retain the services of an attorney if you have a shoplifting charge. And remember, hiring an attorney can save you a great deal of time and money.

Once you’ve received a shoplifting summons, your case will be reviewed by the prosecutor. After the prosecuting lawyer has reviewed your case, he will file a formal charge. Your shoplifting lawyer will need to be retained before this happens. So, do not wait until your court date to contact a criminal defense attorney. 

Contact Our Team Of Seasoned Shoplifting Lawyers

The Barkemeyer Law Firm deals with Shreveport shoplifting cases on a daily basis. You do not want to wait to hire a criminal defense attorney to handle your shoplifting charges.

The law is harsh when it comes to shoplifting charges of any kind. Whether you mistakenly walk out of a store with a piece of merchandise or intentionally take something, it doesn’t matter. Without a criminal defense attorney such as Barkemeyer Law Firm, you can expect to face some very severe charges. We handle of a variety of practice areas, so if you have multiple charges you can count on us!

Contact our team of seasoned shoplifting criminal defense attorneys in Shreveport for the best outcome of charges.