Simply put: False. While it is true that a charge of petty theft (often referred to as shoplifting) is often a person’s first criminal offense, this does not mean that they do not need to consult with an attorney. Even if the item stolen was only worth a few dollars, if you are facing charges then it is always worth consulting with a criminal defense attorney.

What is Petty Theft?

Petty theft refers to stealing property or money of less than $950 in value. This is a misdemeanor. That said, the penalties can be much more than a slap on the wrist. They can include jail time, probation, community service, significant fines, or a restraining order that prevents you from returning to the store or location from which you stole. In most cases you will not spend time in jail, which is the main reasons people believe they do not need an attorney for this charge.

The Importance of Hiring a Theft Defense Attorney

Even if it is your first offense, even if it seems that a petty theft conviction is a minor issue, it is important to know that it can actually have far-reaching consequences. You will have a criminal conviction on your background, which means you may have issues securing employment, finding a job, or finding a place to live. You may not even be able to volunteer at your child’s schools.

In addition to ensuring that the best defense possible is used for your case, hiring a defense attorney also allows you to spend less time in court. Depending on the specifics of your case, it is possible that your attorney can legally appear in court on your behalf. This helps reduce costs as you will not have to worry about parking, gas, or taking time off of work. It also means you do not have to deal with the stress or anxiety you would otherwise experience in court proceedings.

Call Now to Find Out How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help You

If you are in need of help from a criminal defense attorney in California then we hope you will contact Law Office of Michael L. Fell at (949) 585-9055. Your initial consultation is free of charge. We will begin by getting the facts about your case, the evidence against you, and the charges you are facing. We will talk to you about what happened and come up with the best possible defense options.

Now is the time to find out how we can help. You do not have to worry about these charges. You do not have to feel the stress that your life is over. You can simply call Law Office of Michael L. Fell at (949) 585-9055 to get the help you need.