Shoplifting Attorney in Casa Grande

Protecting Your Rights After a Shoplifting Charge in Casa Grande

If you or a loved one is facing shoplifting charges in Casa Grande, choosing the right shoplifting attorney in Casa Grande can have a significant impact on your case. At Sutton Law, P.C., we offer legal representation built on years of experience with Arizona criminal law and a strong commitment to every client's rights. 

We listen to your story, explain the legal process, and ensure you're informed at every step. Our team provides guidance so you understand your rights, your options, and what comes next—helping you move forward with confidence.

Something as simple as a misunderstanding at the checkout counter or a momentary mistake can lead to significant consequences. Our shoplifting lawyers in Casa Grande focus on thorough client communication. When you have questions about how Pinal County courts manage shoplifting or theft cases, or want to plan your next steps, you can rely on us to provide honest, timely answers.

If you are facing shoplifting charges, call a dedicated shoplifting criminal attorney in Casa Grande immediately. We are former prosecutors and offer individualized care and counsel that gets results. Call Sutton Law, P.C. at (877) 774-9344 or contact us online now.

Understanding Shoplifting Laws in Arizona

Arizona law defines Shoplifting (A.R.S. § 13-1805) broadly, encompassing five distinct ways the crime can be committed. The classification as a misdemeanor or a felony depends critically on the value of the goods and the method used.

Common ways to commit shoplifting include:

• Removal Without Paying: Removing goods from the store display without paying the purchase price.
• Concealment: Knowingly concealing unpurchased merchandise while inside the establishment.
• Price Alteration: Altering, removing, or substituting a price tag to pay less than the actual price.
• Transferring Goods: Moving goods from one container to another (e.g., placing high-value items in a low-value box).
• Fictitious Account: Charging the purchase price to a fictitious person or without the person's authority.

Misdemeanor vs. Felony Thresholds

The value of the merchandise is the primary factor determining the severity of the charge:

• Class 1 Misdemeanor: Value of goods is less than $1,000. Penalties include up to 6 months in jail and fines up to $2,500.
• Class 6 Felony: Value of goods is between $1,000 and $2,000, or if a firearm is stolen (regardless of value). Penalties include 0.33 to 2 years in state prison (first offense).
• Class 5 Felony: Value of goods is $2,000 or more, or if the act is part of a "continuing criminal episode" (theft of $1,500+ across three incidents in 90 days).

Collateral Consequences of a Shoplifting Conviction

A conviction for shoplifting in Casa Grande carries both criminal penalties and severe long-term civil consequences.

• Felony Prison Time: A Class 6 Felony carries up to 2 years in prison for a first offense. If the defendant has prior felony convictions, the sentence can be enhanced up to 7.5 to 15 years in state prison, depending on the charge level and prior history.
• Loss of Rights: A felony conviction results in the permanent loss of the right to possess a firearm and the right to vote.
• Civil Liability: In addition to criminal penalties, Arizona allows the merchant to bring a civil action against the accused for damages equal to the retail value of the goods, plus an additional $250 penalty. Paying this civil demand does not absolve you of the criminal charge.
• Employment Barriers: A conviction for a theft-related crime, particularly a felony, severely limits employment opportunities and is a barrier to obtaining professional licenses (e.g., nursing, teaching, security).

The Arizona Criminal Defense Process for Shoplifting

The defense process for shoplifting in the Casa Grande Justice or Superior Courts is built around defeating the presumption of intent and managing the felony threshold.

• Challenging Intent (The Accident Defense): We assert that the action was the result of an honest mistake or a distraction (e.g., a stressful event, dealing with small children, forgetting an item in a pocket while paying for others). Our firm provides context to overcome the presumption of intent.
• Value Defense: For felony charges, we challenge the State's valuation of the merchandise to prove it was worth less than the $1,000 felony threshold, forcing a reduction to a Class 1 Misdemeanor.
• Diversion/Deferred Prosecution: For eligible first-time misdemeanor offenders, we aggressively negotiate for entrance into a Diversion Program. Successful completion of this program results in the charges being dismissed, leaving you without a criminal conviction.
• Motion to Suppress: We scrutinize the actions of loss prevention officers and police for illegal detentions or Miranda violations, filing motions to suppress statements or evidence obtained unlawfully.

Why Trust Sutton Law, P.C. with Your Shoplifting Case

Working with Sutton Law, P.C. means you get a team that values individual attention and clear, ongoing guidance. Our shoplifting lawyers in Casa Grande draw on deep local insight and a commitment to client communication. We know the details of the area’s court procedures, understand how cases move through the local justice system, and have experience with the unique concerns of clients in the Casa Grande community.

Most clients come to us with questions that need quick, clear answers—especially after a shoplifting charge or arrest. Our office is here in Casa Grande, so you never feel far from trusted support. We answer calls promptly, explain next steps, and offer a clear roadmap through the shoplifting criminal defense process in Casa Grande. 

Our responsive approach and steady communication mean you always know who to speak with about your case. At Sutton Law, P.C., we see each client relationship as a long-term commitment, providing consistent guidance regardless of whether your case is straightforward or more complicated.

Don't risk a felony conviction or permanent record. Secure the aggressive defense of a proven Casa Grande shoplifting defense lawyer. We are former prosecutors and offer individualized care and counsel that gets results. Contact us online or call (877) 774-9344.