Petty Theft Lawyer Scottsdale

Being charged with petty theft in Scottsdale can feel like a minor issue—but the consequences can follow you for years. Even a misdemeanor theft conviction can result in fines, probation, a criminal record, and the loss of employment or housing opportunities. In many cases, people charged with petty theft are first-time offenders, young adults, or individuals who simply made a mistake or were wrongly accused.

At Attorney Josh, we understand that good people can find themselves in difficult legal situations. As your trusted Petty Theft Lawyer in Scottsdale, we use smart legal strategies and focused negotiation tactics to protect your future. Led by Joshua A. Lopez, Esq., our firm serves Scottsdale and Phoenix, offering aggressive representation with one goal in mind: Strong Defense. Strong Results.

What Is Petty Theft in Arizona?

Under Arizona law, theft is governed by A.R.S. §13-1802, which defines theft as knowingly and unlawfully taking someone else’s property with the intent to deprive them of it. Petty theft, sometimes referred to as shoplifting or misdemeanor theft, typically involves property valued less than $1,000.

Common examples of petty theft include:

• Shoplifting items from a retail store
• Taking personal belongings from someone’s home or workplace
• Stealing from friends, roommates, or acquaintances
• Removing lost or misplaced property without attempting to return it
• Using deceit or false pretense to obtain low-value goods

Though the term “petty” may suggest minor wrongdoing, the consequences of conviction are anything but small. If you’re facing charges, don’t wait—contact a Petty Theft Lawyer in Scottsdale immediately to begin building your defense.

Penalties for Petty Theft in Scottsdale

In Arizona, petty theft is generally charged as a Class 1 misdemeanor, the most serious misdemeanor level. The potential penalties include:

• Up to 6 months in jail

• Up to $2,500 in fines

• Mandatory restitution to the alleged victim

• Probation for up to 3 years

• Community service

• Permanent criminal record

Additionally, if the alleged offense involved shoplifting from a store, you may also face civil penalties, including demands from the store for compensation, regardless of criminal guilt.

These penalties can affect your:

• Employment prospects

• College admissions

• Scholarship eligibility

• Professional licensing (e.g., nursing, teaching, real estate)

• Immigration status (for non-citizens)

That’s why working with a skilled Petty Theft Lawyer in Scottsdale can make the difference between a permanent record and a clean slate.

How Petty Theft Charges Are Investigated

Petty theft cases often involve:

• Security camera footage

• Store loss prevention officers

• Eyewitness statements

• Police reports

• Social media or text messages

Unfortunately, these sources are not always accurate or legally obtained. Cameras may not show the full picture, store employees may make incorrect assumptions, and confessions may be coerced.

At Attorney Josh, we challenge the prosecution’s case by reviewing every piece of evidence and asking tough questions:

• Was the video clear and timestamped?
• Were you lawfully detained?
• Did the officers read you your rights?
• Did you actually intend to steal the item?

If you’ve been accused, a smart Petty Theft Lawyer in Scottsdale will act quickly to uncover weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and fight to get charges reduced or dismissed.

Defenses to Petty Theft Charges

No two cases are alike, and that’s why our legal strategy is always tailored to your unique circumstances. Some of the most effective defenses in petty theft cases include:

1. Lack of Intent

To convict you, prosecutors must prove you intended to steal the item. If it was forgotten in a shopping cart or accidentally not scanned at self-checkout, there may be no criminal intent.

2. Mistaken Identity

Retail stores often rely on low-resolution security footage. If you were wrongly identified, we can challenge the reliability of video or eyewitness evidence.

3. Unlawful Detention or Search

Were you stopped by store security without probable cause? Did police search your belongings without consent or a warrant? If your rights were violated, the evidence may be inadmissible.

4. Ownership Disputes

In roommate or family disputes, the line between borrowing and theft can be blurred. We can argue that you had a reasonable belief you had permission to use the property.

5. Diversion Eligibility

For many first-time offenders, the best defense is avoiding a conviction altogether. Arizona offers diversion programs that allow for dismissal upon successful completion of education, counseling, and restitution.

As your Petty Theft Lawyer in Scottsdale, Attorney Josh will explore every option and fight to resolve your case with minimal impact on your future.

First-Time Offenders: What You Need to Know

If this is your first criminal charge, you may qualify for alternative outcomes that help protect your record. These include:

• Pretrial diversion (dismissal upon completion of court requirements)
• Deferred prosecution (plea postponed while you complete probation)
• Reduction to a civil infraction or citation

• Plea to a non-theft offense (like disorderly conduct)

We’ve helped countless first-time clients avoid a criminal record, preserve their jobs, and protect their reputation. A smart Petty Theft Lawyer in Scottsdale knows how to negotiate these options and present your background and circumstances in the best light.

Petty Theft and Immigration Consequences

If you are not a U.S. citizen, even a misdemeanor theft conviction can result in:

• Deportation proceedings

• Visa denial or revocation

• Green card ineligibility

• Loss of DACA or asylum protections

Theft offenses are often considered “crimes of moral turpitude” under federal immigration law, which can make them particularly dangerous for immigrants—even those with lawful status.

At Attorney Josh, we understand how criminal and immigration law intersect. As your Petty Theft Lawyer in Scottsdale, we’ll defend your case with the goal of avoiding immigration consequences whenever possible.

What to Do After a Petty Theft Arrest

If you’ve been arrested or cited for petty theft, here’s what to do:

1. Remain silent. Don’t explain yourself to store staff or law enforcement—your statements can and will be used against you.
2. Don’t post on social media. Avoid mentioning the case online, even in private messages.
3. Save all documentation. Receipts, police reports, or civil demand letters may be important.
4. Call Attorney Josh immediately. The sooner we begin your defense, the better your chances of a positive outcome.

Why Choose Attorney Josh?

When you’re charged with petty theft, you don’t just need legal representation—you need a defense that is smart, fast, and strategic.

Here’s what sets Attorney Josh apart:

Smart Legal Strategies

We don’t just show up—we build tactical defenses based on facts, evidence, and leverage.

Strong Results

We secure dismissals, reductions, and alternatives that protect your record and your reputation.

Direct Access to Your Lawyer

You’ll work directly with Joshua A. Lopez, Esq. from start to finish—not an associate or paralegal.

Local Court Experience

We know the Scottsdale and Phoenix court systems, the prosecutors, and how to resolve theft cases favorably.

Compassionate Counsel

We understand the stress of facing criminal charges. You’ll get honest advice, fierce representation, and zero judgment.

How We Can Help

A petty theft charge doesn’t have to derail your life—but how you respond right now makes all the difference.

At Attorney Josh, we help people just like you take back control of their situation. Whether it’s fighting for a dismissal, pursuing a diversion program, or negotiating a non-theft resolution, we’re ready to stand with you and fight smart.

Call today for a free consultation.

Let’s protect your record and your future—together.

Attorney Josh
Strong Defense. Strong Results.