Legal Question in Criminal Law in Washington

Shoplifting in Washington State

Is ''Intent'' required to be shown as a prosecution for shoplifting and how can you rebut this assumption?


Asked on 9/03/08, 8:32 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

James J. White, attorney Law Offices of Smith & White, PLLC

Re: Shoplifting in Washington State

Yes, intent is required. And there is no need to rebut this assumption as they are not allowed to assume intent. The prosecutor must prove it. Passing all points of pay are the facts usually used to infer an intent to steal. However, you could still claim that your possession of the item was inadvertent (forgot you had it) if that is the actual facts.

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Answered on 9/05/08, 6:18 pm


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