Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Shoplifting

The case: This situation is being applied toward a Minor and this is the child's First Offense. Amount of merchandise stolen is Over $500.

Is this case always going to court?

What should parents do in order that the case will not going to the court?

Should parents approach the store manager to solve this problem?

Also, the child was observed using a tool to remove the Security Sensor from the merchandise. What would be the probable punishment by law for this action?

Overall, is there anything specifically that could be pleaded toward the judge in order to decrease the severity of the punishment?


Asked on 11/11/08, 12:28 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys
Michael Stone Law Offices of Michael B. Stone Toll Free 1-855-USE-MIKE

Re: Shoplifting

Hello! Do not approach the store manager or the judge, Call a lawyer and make an appointment.

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Answered on 11/11/08, 1:17 pm
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

Re: Shoplifting

He's going to court if he was arrested. Unless he knows how to practice criminal/juvenile defense law, hire him an attorney that does; you don't get to speak or 'plead' for him in court unless you're an attorney, and your question makes clear you're not. There is no advice anyone can give you that is of any value unless they review all the facts, evidence, testimony, documents, etc., with you. If the store had him arrested, it is obviously their policy to prosecute. "Talking" to them yourself is unlikely to accomplish anything. Your attorney may be able to negotiate a civil compromise that the court will accept.

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Answered on 11/11/08, 2:22 pm
Brian McGinity McGinity Law Office

Re: Shoplifting

You really have not provided enough facts to give you any type of reliable answer to any of your questions. It is obvious that you are upset and you really do not know what to do. First, stop wasting time looking for answers on the internet even if you happen to stumble across some you will not recognize them because you are not an attorney. Second, do not talk with anyone before you talk to an attorney. Period end of report. Do not even consider talking to anyone before you talk to an attorney. Finally your son needs an attorney. Use the internet if you want in order to find him an attorney you can afford. You will need either a juvenile attorney or a juvenile criminal attorney. Criminal procedures, options and punishments are very different for juveniles than for adults. If you personally do not know anyone then start asking your friends if they know a good attorney. If your friends can not help by referring you to an attorney, then call your local bar county bar association. The county Bar associations generally have lists of attorneys to refer you to. Get some names from them and start finding one you can afford. This is a serious situation. The sooner you get some good reliable advice the sooner you will know what to do. Good luck

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Answered on 11/12/08, 12:39 am


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