If you’ve been arrested for shoplifting in San Gabriel or the surrounding areas, it’s important to act fast. Even a seemingly minor charge like shoplifting can lead to lasting damage like criminal records, fines, jail time, and harm to your personal and professional reputation. The good news? You don’t have to go through this alone.
At Perliss Law Firm, we bring over 30 years of criminal defense experience to every case. With a calm, professional, and modern approach, our team understands how to navigate theft-related charges and fight for the best outcome possible. We have a track record of successful case dismissals, charge reductions, or alternative sentences.
Don’t wait – reach out today for a completely free consultation.
Shoplifting is defined under California Penal Code Section 459.5 as entering a commercial establishment during regular business hours with the intent to steal merchandise worth $950 or less.
While this is typically charged as a misdemeanor, it still carries serious consequences and can be elevated to a felony based on prior convictions or aggravating circumstances.
You may face shoplifting charges if you’re accused of:
Concealing merchandise without paying
Switching price tags
Walking out of a store with unpaid items
Collaborating with others to steal
At Perliss Law Firm, our lead defense attorney, Jonathan Perliss, has worked on countless shoplifting cases. He uses meticulous attention to detail and previous prosecution exposure to craft a personalized defense. Jonathan and the rest of our legal team will fight for you and your future in the courtroom.
A conviction for shoplifting may seem minor on the surface, but the penalties can be life-altering, especially if this isn't your first run-in with the law. Here's what you could be facing:
Up to 6 months in county jail (for a misdemeanor)
Fines up to $1,000
Community service or probation
A permanent criminal record that may affect employment or immigration status
Additional penalties if you have prior theft or felony convictions
Even if this is your first offense, these consequences can follow you for years. That’s why it’s so important to have an experienced attorney on your side to fight for your best outcome.
At Perliss Law Firm, we take advantage of our 30+ years of experience and unique prosecution exposure to craft a personalized defense in your favor. Several of our clients have received reduced charges or had their cases dismissed altogether.
Don’t wait – let us fight for you and help you achieve a clean, permanent record today.
Many people underestimate the long-term consequences of a shoplifting conviction in California. Even a misdemeanor can follow you into job interviews, housing applications, and academic opportunities. A criminal record may:
Limit your employment options, especially in retail or financial roles
Create challenges in applying for college or financial aid
Affect your ability to secure housing or loans
Trigger immigration consequences for non-citizens
This is why proactive legal defense is critical. Not just to avoid jail time, but to protect your long-term stability.
Shoplifting accusations are often built on circumstantial evidence or store surveillance that doesn’t tell the full story. That’s why our legal team will investigate every aspect of your case and develop a personalized defense. Some common defenses include:
You didn’t intend to steal; it was a misunderstanding or accident.
You were wrongly identified as the suspect.
A store employee or witness misunderstood your actions.
Your rights were violated during your arrest or questioning.
We analyze every detail of your unique situation to find the best strategies against the prosecution. Perliss Law Firm will do everything possible to achieve the best outcome for you.
In some cases—especially for first-time offenders or individuals facing financial hardship—California courts may offer alternative sentencing options that avoid jail time altogether. These may include:
Complete specific requirements like community service, theft education classes, or counseling to have the case dismissed.
Plead guilty, but have sentencing delayed while you fulfill court-ordered conditions. Upon successful completion, the case may be dismissed.
In limited cases, charges may be dropped if the accused reimburses the store for losses and the store agrees not to prosecute.
At Perliss Law Firm, we assist eligible clients in pursuing these alternatives when available. This significantly reduces the risk of a permanent criminal record.
Shoplifting charges don’t only affect adults. Teenagers and minors can also be charged under California law. These cases are typically handled in juvenile court, but they can still result in lasting records and penalties.
Our team works with families to seek reduced consequences, including diversion programs, community service, and expungement opportunities.
If your child has been accused of shoplifting, contact Perliss Law Firm right away. We will arrange a completely free, confidential consultation to discuss your options.
Early legal intervention can make all the difference.
We take every case seriously—because we know what’s at stake. When you hire Perliss Law Firm, you’ll get:
Understand your legal position and what comes next.
No one-size-fits-all tactics—your defense is tailored to your case.
You’ll speak directly with your attorney, not an assistant.
We examine video evidence, witness statements, and store procedures.
Our calm and secure environment keeps you informed and protected.
Your future may depend on the legal firm you choose to represent you in court. At Perliss Law Firm, we take that very seriously. You can expect:
We know how the other side thinks
We serve a diverse range of clients with care
Serving San Gabriel and the surrounding communities
A proven, long-standing presence in LA County criminal defense
We handle shoplifting and theft cases in:
We’re committed to defending you wherever your case may arise in Los Angeles County.
Typically, shoplifting items worth $950 or less is a misdemeanor. However, if you have a criminal record of sex crimes or violent felonies, you can be charged with a felony.
Yes. If prosecutors believe you had the intent to steal—even if you hadn’t exited the store—you can still be charged under Penal Code 459.5.
First-time offenders may be eligible for diversion programs, which allow them to avoid a conviction if they complete specific conditions. We can help you pursue this path if available.
Store personnel can detain suspected shoplifters under specific conditions, but they must follow strict rules. If your rights were violated during detention, we may be able to suppress evidence.
No. You should never speak to anyone about the incident until you’ve consulted a criminal defense attorney.
A shoplifting conviction can follow you for life, but a strong legal defense can help you avoid the worst consequences. Contact Perliss Law Firm today for a free, confidential consultation. We’ll listen to your story, explain your options, and build a defense designed to protect your rights and your future.
.png)
.png)
