What is shoplifting?
Shoplifting is the theft of goods from an open retail establishment. What concerns shoplifting and the law, it is considered to be a minor theft offense. It can bring to small penalties or extensive prison sentence. Such terms as "shoplifting" and "shoplifter" are not commonly defined in law. The crime of shoplifting is mostly subject to the legal classification of larceny. However, in this article we will use such terms as laws of shoplifting for easier comprehension.
Shoplifting is not only the actual stealing
In general, they define shoplifting as a secret theft of merchandise from a store without making a payment for it. However, criminal charges for shoplifting can take place in cases of the intent to steal together with an act in furtherance. It happens, if you do the following:
· Alter a price tag
· Remove theft-prevention devices (or even an intention to remove)
· Hide an item being in the store (in your clothes or accessories)
Out of laws on shoplifting
You might hear from a security officer boldface statements about a law of shoplifting, and what you have to do further. You are under stress, but try to have clear mind. Remember that store security acts within a very limited and particular base of authority. For instance, they have no right to keep you in a separate small room. However, they have the right to prevent you from leaving the shop. On any occasion, you have the right to request legal representative or a police officer.
A short talk with a security officer
Shoplifting laws do not oblige you to give all the explanations to a security officer. If you see that it’s all lousy, contact the management of the store or a shop employee. Security officers may have a specific approach and it has nothing to do with the law on shoplifting. What’s more, you have the right not to answer questions and give your arguments until police or a lawyer are present.
Cooperation is your possible safety boat
Many shops do not bother with police; it is enough to return stolen goods, get a stern warning and promise never to come back. Sometimes you will need to pay some kind of fee and sign your confession of guilt. Security officers and shop management are generally not willing to risk a false arrest. The main thing is to cooperate at the place and then there is no need to face all the shoplifting laws in the UK, the States or Zambia.
A shoplifting lawyer protects your rights
Failed in cooperation and police takes you away from the shop. It is time to apply to a lawyer. He will fight to defend you in the court and helps to reduce your penalty. In addition, a lawyer will help to you against the store itself. Shopkeepers have a privilege to detain suspected shoplifters, but sometimes they detain people passing beyond their authority. A shoplifting lawyer is able to resolve the situation much faster than you do it by your own.
The price of your imprudence
Each country has its own “shoplifting laws” such as cutting hands, giving bribes, paying penalties and so on. Be sure that you know them especially while you are acting out of your homeland. Speaking about common financial liability, it includes payment or repayment of the following points:
· the full retail value of the stolen item (it might also be returned in sellable condition)
· store owner’s losses caused by shoplifting
· the additional civil penalty that is based on the special formula
· store owner’s court costs and attorneys’ fees.
If your rights are violated
If you are charged with shoplifting, it is crucial to talk to an experienced defense attorney as quickly as possible. You will need to protect your rights at the time of arrestment and in the future. If you think that your rights are violated, you need to consult your lawyer. What’s more, you can also sue for false arrest or false imprisonment.
