Got Busted Shoplifting at Walmart in NY? How a Lawyer Can Help

Got Busted Shoplifting at Walmart in NY? How a Lawyer Can Help

Uh oh. You got caught pocketing some stuff at a New York Walmart. Not your finest moment. Now you’re scared about what happens next. Will you go to jail? Get a criminal record? Lose your job? How can you fight the charges?

Don’t panic. Read on to learn why hiring a New York shoplifting lawyer is your best move. An experienced attorney can often get Walmart theft charges reduced or dismissed.

Walmart’s Tough Stance Against Shoplifters

Let’s be real – Walmart has a major shoplifting problem. People are constantly trying to steal merchandise from their 24-hour superstores. In response, Walmart cracks down hard on shoplifters to deter theft.

Walmart uses extensive security camera systems, visible security guards, and plainclothes loss prevention agents. If they catch you stealing, they’ll detain you and call the police to press charges.

And make no mistake, Walmart actively assists prosecutors in building criminal cases against shoplifters. They provide witness statements, surveillance video, and receipts documenting the value of stolen goods.

Penalties for Shoplifting at Walmart in NY

Like most retailers, Walmart pushes for the harshest penalties permitted under New York law. Common consequences for shoplifting at Walmart include:

• Up to 1 year in jail for petty larceny (under $1000 stolen)
• State prison time for grand larceny (over $1000 stolen)
• Permanent criminal record
• Fines and probation
• Civil demand letter up to $500

And if you have prior theft convictions, you’ll face even stiffer punishments like felony charges. That’s why it’s so important to hire a lawyer to defend against Walmart shoplifting accusations.

Can a Lawyer Get Walmart Charges Dropped?

Yes, an experienced New York shoplifting lawyer can often get charges reduced or dismissed, even for Walmart cases. Here’s how:

• Challenge whether you intended to steal
• Question the accuracy of surveillance footage
• Argue illegal search or detention by security guards
• Point out errors in documenting the value of goods
• Negotiate plea deals for lesser charges

An attorney thoroughly investigates the circumstances of your case to build the strongest defense.

Should You Just Pay Walmart’s Civil Demand?

After detaining shoplifters, Walmart sends a “civil demand” letter demanding up to $500 for stolen merchandise and detention costs. Many people simply pay this to avoid criminal charges.

But this doesn’t prevent Walmart from still reporting you to police. The civil demand is separate from criminal prosecution. So don’t assume paying the letter makes the problem go away.

You need an attorney to contact the police/prosecutor and try to halt criminal charges. This is the only way to avoid a conviction on your record.

Will a Lawyer Help a Juvenile Charged by Walmart?

Yes, lawyers can be extremely helpful if a minor is accused of shoplifting from Walmart. Juvenile charges are sealed and can often be reduced or dismissed with an attorney’s assistance.

An experienced lawyer will negotiate with the probation department and prosecutor to minimize penalties. First-time offenses like shoplifting from Walmart often result in probation rather than detention for juveniles.

Parents should hire counsel as soon as possible after the incident to protect their child’s future.

How Much Does a Walmart Shoplifting Lawyer Cost?

Attorney fees for a Walmart shoplifting case typically range from $1,000 – $2,500, but can vary based on:

• Lawyer’s experience and reputation
• If you’re charged with a misdemeanor or felony
• Case complexity and required court appearances

Hiring a lawyer is an investment in your future and freedom. The consequences of a conviction are usually far worse than attorney costs.

Finding the Best Lawyer for Your Walmart Case

Look for a New York criminal defense lawyer with extensive experience fighting retail theft cases. Avoid real estate or divorce lawyers. Ask potential attorneys:

• How many shoplifting cases have you handled?
• What are your strategies for defending Walmart cases?
• What are my options for getting charges reduced or dismissed?
• Can you help protect my criminal record?

Choose a lawyer you feel comfortable with and who clearly explains how they can help your specific situation.

Act Fast to Start Your Legal Defense

Don’t wait to connect with a lawyer after being detained for Walmart shoplifting. The sooner you hire counsel, the better.

An attorney can immediately reach out to police/prosecutors on your behalf to try halting charges. This prevents the case from progressing further.

Most lawyers offer free consultations, so call one today. The right lawyer can make all the difference in avoiding devastating shoplifting penalties.

References

• New York Shoplifting from Wal-Mart | NY Criminal Lawyer
• A Tiny Number of Shoplifters Commit Thousands of New York City Thefts
• I’m a minor and was caught shoplifting from Walmart, what will happen?
• The shoplifting epidemic taking over America with a $100B annual price tag