Shoplifting Lawyer Scottsdale

If you’ve been charged with shoplifting in Scottsdale, you’re not alone—and you’re not without options. Shoplifting is one of the most common criminal offenses in Arizona, but that doesn’t mean it’s not serious. A shoplifting conviction can result in jail time, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record that impacts your job, your reputation, and your future.

At Attorney Josh, we know that good people make mistakes—and sometimes people are even wrongly accused. Whether it’s a misunderstanding at self-checkout, an impulsive moment, or a false allegation, we’re here to help. As a strategic and experienced Shoplifting Lawyer in Scottsdale, I work relentlessly to protect my clients with smart legal tactics and strong results.

Led by Joshua A. Lopez, Esq., our firm serves clients in Scottsdale, Phoenix, and throughout Arizona, providing personalized defense built on preparation, strategy, and courtroom experience.

What Is Shoplifting Under Arizona Law?

In Arizona, shoplifting is defined by A.R.S. §13-1805. You can be charged with shoplifting if you knowingly take items from a store with the intent to deprive the store of its merchandise without paying full value.

You may also be charged with shoplifting if you:

• Remove items from a store without paying
• Switch price tags to pay less
• Conceal items with the intent to steal
• Charge items to a fake or stolen account
• Remove security tags or theft detection devices

Importantly, Arizona law allows shoplifting charges even if you did not leave the store—as long as there is intent to steal. This means that simply concealing merchandise or changing tags may be enough for police to arrest and charge you.

That’s why hiring a smart Shoplifting Lawyer in Scottsdale is critical from day one. We work fast to uncover the facts, challenge weak evidence, and protect your record.

Penalties for Shoplifting in Scottsdale

Shoplifting penalties vary based on the value of the stolen merchandise, prior convictions, and whether the incident involved aggravating factors like organized retail theft or accomplices.

Here’s a breakdown of the potential penalties:

• Less than $1,000 (Class 1 Misdemeanor)
  Up to 6 months in jail, $2,500 in fines, probation, and restitution
• $1,000 to $2,000 (Class 6 Felony)
  Up to 2 years in prison for first-time offenders
• $2,000 to $3,000 (Class 5 Felony)
  Up to 2.5 years in prison
• More than $3,000 or part of a shoplifting ring (Class 4 Felony)
  Up to 3.75 years in prison

In addition to criminal penalties, a conviction can result in:

• Civil liability (store may sue for damages)
• Loss of employment or future job opportunities

• Permanent criminal record

• Immigration consequences (for non-U.S. citizens)

If this is your first offense, you may be eligible for a diversion program, which allows charges to be dismissed after successful completion of counseling, restitution, and community service. As your Shoplifting Lawyer in Scottsdale, I’ll pursue every possible path to avoid a conviction and protect your future.

Common Shoplifting Scenarios

Shoplifting charges can arise in various situations, including:

• Self-checkout errors: Forgetting to scan an item or scanning the wrong barcode
• Distraction or confusion: Leaving the store with unpaid items by mistake
• Peer pressure: Especially among teens or college students
• False accusations: Based on poor surveillance footage or mistaken identity
• Medical or mental health issues: Compulsive behavior or cognitive impairments

Unfortunately, store security often acts fast and aggressively—sometimes detaining or accusing people without full evidence. If this has happened to you, you need a Shoplifting Lawyer in Scottsdale who understands how to fight back.

How Attorney Josh Defends Shoplifting Charges

At Attorney Josh, we don’t just defend—we plan, investigate, and execute legal strategies with precision. Every case is unique, and we tailor our defense to your specific situation.

Common defenses we use include:

1. Lack of Intent

To convict you of shoplifting, the prosecution must prove you intended to steal. If the incident was an accident or misunderstanding, we may be able to get the charges dismissed.

2. Mistaken Identity

Surveillance video can be grainy, misleading, or fail to show the entire story. We challenge visual evidence and eyewitness reliability.

3. Illegal Search or Detention

If store employees or law enforcement violated your rights by searching you without consent or detaining you unlawfully, we may be able to suppress the evidence.

4. Mental Health or Cognitive Issues

In some cases, mental health conditions may play a role in alleged shoplifting. We advocate for rehabilitation and treatment instead of punishment.

5. Diversion Eligibility

If you have no prior record, you may qualify for a pretrial diversion program that results in dismissal of charges upon successful completion.

My goal as your Shoplifting Lawyer in Scottsdale is always the same: protect your freedom, reputation, and future.

First-Time Shoplifting Offense in Scottsdale

If you’re facing your first criminal charge, you’re likely anxious and confused about what’s next. The good news? First-time offenders often have options that avoid jail and keep your record clean, such as:

• Diversion programs
• Deferred prosecution
• Probation instead of incarceration
• Negotiated reduction to a non-theft offense (e.g., disorderly conduct)

We’ve helped countless clients move past a shoplifting charge without lasting damage. Let a seasoned Shoplifting Lawyer in Scottsdale help you do the same.

Shoplifting and Immigration Consequences

If you’re not a U.S. citizen, a shoplifting conviction can have serious immigration implications, even for green card holders or visa recipients.

Theft crimes are often classified as “crimes of moral turpitude”, which can result in:

• Visa revocation

• Green card denial or loss

• Deportation or removal proceedings

• Ineligibility for naturalization

As your Shoplifting Lawyer in Scottsdale, I understand how criminal defense intersects with immigration law. I work carefully to resolve charges in a way that protects your legal status and long-term goals.

What to Do If You’re Accused of Shoplifting

If you’ve been accused, detained, or charged with shoplifting in Scottsdale, take the following steps:

1. Remain silent. Do not admit anything to store staff or police.
2. Do not pay civil demand letters without legal review.

3. Avoid posting about the incident on social media.

4. Gather evidence, including receipts, messages, or video if possible.
5. Call Attorney Josh immediately to protect your rights.

Why Choose Attorney Josh?

There are many criminal defense attorneys in Arizona—but very few with the strategic mindset and courtroom experience to get the best outcome for shoplifting cases.

Here’s what makes Attorney Josh different:

Smart Strategies

I don’t just defend—I outthink. Every case is built on legal insight and sharp execution.

Strong Results

From dismissals to charge reductions and diversion programs, I deliver outcomes that protect your future.

Direct Access

You’ll work directly with Joshua A. Lopez, Esq., not a paralegal or junior associate.

Local Knowledge

As a Shoplifting Lawyer in Scottsdale, I know the Maricopa County court system, the prosecutors, and how to negotiate effectively.

Judgment-Free Representation

I treat every client with respect and discretion—because everyone deserves a second chance.

How We Can Help

A shoplifting charge may feel like the end—but with the right legal strategy, it can be just a temporary bump in the road. At Attorney Josh, we fight for clients who need a second chance, a fair process, and a voice in court.

Whether you’re facing misdemeanor or felony charges, we bring the experience, creativity, and commitment needed to protect your freedom and your future.

Call now for a free consultation.

Let’s fight this together—with smart strategies and strong results.

Attorney Josh
Strong Defense. Strong Results.