I’ve Been Arrested for Seattle Shoplifting. What Will Happen to Me?

Our Seattle shoplifting lawyers will defend you against your criminal charge.

If you have been accused of shoplifting in Washington State, there is no need to simply accept the charges. Our Seattle criminal defense attorneys will fight for your rights as an accused individual and offer you the best defense possible at an affordable rate.

Individuals accused of Seattle shoplifting are actually facing two separate prosecutions:

1. Criminal prosecution for theft by the State of Washington. The potential outcome of your criminal trial may vary depending on the value of the goods or services stolen. Third-degree Seattle shoplifting – the most common charge – carries a maximum penalty of one year in jail and a $5,000 fine. If more expensive items were shoplifted, you may face a considerably longer sentence and a higher fine. Discussing your circumstances with a Seattle shoplifting lawyer will help you understand the potential outcomes of your case.

2. Civil liability prosecution by the retailer. If a retailer from whom you have been accused of shoplifting brings a case against you in civil court and wins, you will likely be liable for the cost of the merchandise or services stolen. However, paying this cost does not exempt you from a criminal trial – you will probably still be prosecuted by the State of Washington. Consult with Seattle shoplifting lawyers to learn more about the separate trials and what you can expect.

Our Seattle lawyers also handle these areas of law:

Why Hire a Seattle Shoplifting Attorney?

As an accused individual, you are afforded certain constitutional rights to protect you – and we’re dedicated to ensuring that each of our clients is treated fairly by the law enforcement system. Our Seattle shoplifting lawyers understand the complex circumstances surrounding the charges against you, and we know how to handle your case to ensure a fair and appropriate outcome.

You have the right to consult with a criminal defense attorney before speaking to the police, and doing so prevents the undesirable situation in which you incriminate yourself and the statements you make are used against you in court.

Additionally, the burden of proof in a Seattle shoplifting case is on the State of Washington – meaning that you are considered innocent until proven guilty and it is the police’s job to mount evidence against you. If any evidence was unlawfully obtained or incriminates another person besides you, our Seattle shoplifting attorneys will uncover it to have the charges against you reduced or even dropped.

At Washington Criminal Attorneys, our legal team has over 30 years of combined experience handling Washington State shoplifting cases. Our low flat fees and flexible payment plans make our services affordable, and we aim to treat each of our clients without judgment and with the respect that they deserve. Don’t let the nightmare of being convicted for shoplifting affect your life.