Shoplifting Charges in Las Vegas, Nevada
Understanding shoplifting charges
If you have been arrested for shoplifting in Las Vegas, you need to hire a lawyer who has experience with these types of cases. We invite you to call us at 702-432-1000 to discuss your situation. The lawyers at Heshmati & Associates help clients with shoplifting charges all the time.
What is a shoplifting charge?
Shoplifting in Nevada (also known as petty theft, petty larceny, petit larceny, or retail theft) is stealing property valued under $650.00.
Shoplifting charges or petty theft charges usually come from the shopkeeper. The following businesses file theft charges quite often:
- Walmart
- Target
- Grocery stores
- Boutique stores
- Clothing and apparel stores
- Hotels and casinos
Although a shoplifting charge is only a misdemeanor in Nevada, the consequences of a shoplifting conviction can haunt a defendant for years to come.
How much does a lawyer cost for a shoplifting case?
Each client's case is different. Call us at 702-432-1000, and we will quote you the price on a phone.
Our fees are reasonable.
Shoplifting ticket in Las Vegas: What to expect?
You could expect two or more court appearances, including arraignment and sometimes even a trial, if you received a shoplifting ticket. It is recommended that you hire a lawyer to help you defend the charge.
The penalty for a shoplifting charge
Under Nevada law, petty theft or shoplifting is a misdemeanor.
Shoplifting Charge Penalty
| Category | Penalty |
|---|---|
| Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months of jail or a $1,000.00 fine, as well as restitution for any damaged or unreturned property. |
Although the consequences could be severe, a good shoplifting lawyer can negotiate and, in some cases, dismiss these charges.
Defenses
There are many legal and factual defenses to Nevada for petty theft. These include:
- Lack of intent to steal
- Mistaken ownership
- Legal purchase of the property
Can I get refused a gaming card for petit larceny?
Nevada Gaming Commission and State Gaming Control Board may refuse to issue a gaming card if you have a criminal history or criminal record.
If you have any questions or want to discuss your situation, fill out the online form, and a lawyer for shoplifting charges will call you within 24 hours. Or call our office at 702-432-1000.
The initial consultation is free.
Can I get hired with a petty larceny charge?
Unless you seal your criminal record, a petty larceny charge will come up at your pre-employment background check. Even though there is no law or government rule that requires employers to hire (or fire) someone based on their past arrest history, and even though most employers look at a candidate's background as a whole - work experience, education, and commitment to the job - the right way to handle a past conviction is to seal your criminal record.
When can the shoplifting record be sealed?
Typically, you can seal a shoplifting charge (aka as petty theft, petty larceny, or petit charge) after two (2) years from when the case is closed. Check our record sealing page for most current rules.
Las Vegas lawyer for shoplifting charges can help
If you have been accused of shoplifting or petty theft, involving a lawyer is one of the critical actions you can take. Of course, each legal case is different, and the circumstances surrounding each arrest are different too. Without knowing the specifics of your case, it is hard to provide any recommendations.
Call our office at 702-432-1000 and ask to speak with a lawyer for shoplifting charges.
Heshmati & Associates' law firm represents residents and tourists arrested for shoplifting in Las Vegas, North Las Vegas, Boulder City, Henderson, Summerlin, Clark County, other Nevada cities.
Additional Resources: Shoplifting Charges
Las Vegas Police Permits - Getting a work card (new, renewal, or replacement) in Las Vegas, Nevada. List of applicable fees.
Psychology Behind Shoplifting. In this article (Forbes Magazine), the author sheds light on the psychology behind petty larceny, mood and wealth.
