Legal Question in Criminal Law in South Carolina

shoplifting charges

I was arrested for supposedly stealing a couple of drinks and leaving the store. I thought I had paid for them, as I was in thought about another matter. But the store wants to prosecute all 'shoplifters'' to set examples. My court date is set , but I don't know whether to plead guilty, no contest, or not giulty. I went back inside to pay for the drinks after the clerk came out after me, but then I wasn't allowed to pay. I then put the drinks back and left the store, but was brought back to wait for the police, who had to arrest me because the store requested it. I was released after many hours while my boyfriend tried to find out about my bond. I am just clueless about how to proceed and what to expect. I am a 49 yr old white female, self employed.


Asked on 8/15/07, 11:54 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
Elizabeth Hyatt E.H. Robinson Law, LLC

Re: shoplifting charges

I will be glad to help you figure out what to do. Email me at [email protected].

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Answered on 8/15/07, 1:20 pm
Robert Johnston Law Offices of Robert J. Johnston

Re: shoplifting charges

Its almost impossible to advise you on what to do unless I knew what evidence they had. Sometimes there are witnesses, video tapes, etc. On the other hand, shop lifting requires "intent." Its possible that they would not be able to prove that you intended to take anything. Therefore, before your question can be answered, I would need to know more about the case. Email or call if you care to fill me in.

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Answered on 8/15/07, 1:38 pm


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