As an experienced Newark shoplifting lawyer, I can review police reports, video surveillance footage and witness testimony that usually used as evidence in petty theft charges. Let me devise a strategy to defend you in both the criminal and civil courtrooms. Public confrontations with store owners and accusations of theft can be humiliating and damaging to your professional and social reputation.

A detail-oriented criminal defense attorney ensures that your rights are protected. Just like the police, a shop or store owner must be able to demonstrate probable cause. They can get it wrong! They must prove that you did, in fact, steal or attempt to steal merchandise from their place of business before they can apprehend you and press charges. Business owners must:

• Witness your approach a selection of the merchandise in question
• Witness your actions and efforts to conceal the merchandise
• Maintain uninterrupted observation of your actions once the merchandise has been concealed
• Witness your failure to pay for the merchandise
• Make a reasonable effort to peaceably detain you while authorities are called
• Business owners are not permitted to demand or conduct a strip search, nor can they forcibly search or restrain you

As a practiced attorney, I have been able to successfully assist my clients maintain their spotless criminal records. In so doing, I have also helped them avoid the lifelong complications resulting from a conviction on petty theft charges. Background checks for housing and employment opportunities are now fairly common practices, and a guilty verdict based upon shoplifting charges can ruin your chances for either.