My Teenager Was Arrested for Shoplifting. Now What?

 Posted on November 11, 2021 in Juvenile

Parents are responsible for guiding their children and helping them grow into happy, successful adults. However, even the best parents cannot prevent their children from making mistakes. For teenagers, shoplifting may seem like a victimless crime. Otherwise, law-abiding teenagers may justify stealing from a store because the crime does not involve violence or physical harm. Teenagers may also be peer-pressured into stealing. Some shoplift in order to impress their friends or gain a certain reputation at school. Other teens accused of theft are simply in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Whatever the reasons, theft charges can have a significant impact on a young person’s future. If your child was arrested for retail theft, contact a criminal defense lawyer experienced in juvenile offenses for help.  

What Are the Consequences of Juvenile Theft?

Theft is estimated to have cost retailers $62 billion in 2019 alone. Preventing shoplifting losses is a top priority for most stores and retail chains. Security guards, video surveillance, and antitheft devices are designed to catch shoplifters in the act and prevent ongoing theft. Some store owners and managers will give teenagers a second or even third chance after being caught shoplifting. However, the store does reserve the right to call the police if they catch a child or teenager shoplifting.

Illinois courts often focus on rehabilitation over punishment when it comes to non-violent juvenile offenses. If your child was charged with retail theft, he or she may be able to attend a deferred prosecution program in lieu of juvenile detention. He or she may also be required to attend mental health counseling or participate in community service.  As parents of a child charged with stealing, you may be required to reimburse the store for the stolen merchandise.

Just like adults, teenagers and children have a right to be represented by an attorney during juvenile proceedings. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can help you understand the next steps after your child has been accused of shoplifting.

Contact a Naperville Juvenile Defense Lawyer for Help

Stealing from a retail store may initially seem like a small matter. However, shoplifting can lead to criminal charges and significant consequences, including juvenile detention. At the Law Office of Patricia Magaña, LLC, we understand that teenagers make mistakes. We believe that teens charged with shoplifting deserve a second chance. Aurora juvenile defense attorney Patricia Magaña has over 15 years of legal experience representing teens and their families. Call 630-448-2001 for a free, confidential consultation to learn how we can help you. Se Habla Español.

Source: 

https://www.businessinsider.com/retailers-facing-62-billion-problem-with-theft-2020-7