Theft under $5,000
We help clients understand theft allegations, the evidence required, the value involved, and the possible consequences of a conviction.
Criminal Law Service
Shoplifting
Shoplifting and theft allegations can affect employment, immigration, travel, education, and reputation. Sawan Law House LLP helps clients understand the evidence, court process, resolution options, and defence issues.
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Shoplifting charges are common, but they should not be treated casually. A theft allegation can affect employment, immigration, education, travel, professional licensing, and reputation. Even a first court appearance can feel overwhelming if the person does not know what the charge means or what options may exist.
Sawan Law House LLP helps clients respond to shoplifting and theft under $5,000 allegations with care. We review the disclosure, including police notes, loss prevention statements, surveillance footage, receipts, and any store-related documents before advising on next steps.
Some cases may involve misunderstanding, lack of intent, mistaken identity, missing evidence, mental health context, restitution issues, or possible diversion discussions. The correct approach depends on the evidence and the client’s personal circumstances.
This page provides general information only and is not legal advice. Criminal matters are urgent and fact-specific. You should speak with a lawyer before speaking to police, contacting store staff, paying demands, missing court, or making decisions about your case.
How We Help
Focused support for each stage of your matter.
Retail evidence review
We review loss prevention notes, surveillance video, receipts, inventory records, police notes, and witness statements.
First-time allegations
First-time accused persons may have resolution options, but those options depend on the facts, Crown position, and personal circumstances.
Diversion discussions
Where available, diversion or alternative measures may be considered. We help clients understand eligibility and what the process may involve.
Immigration and employment risk
Theft allegations can have consequences beyond court. We help clients identify immigration, employment, school, or licensing concerns early.
Court representation
We assist with disclosure, Crown discussions, resolution planning, trial issues, and court appearances.
Our Process
A clear path from first conversation to next steps.
1
Review the charge and court date
We start by confirming the charge, release terms, first appearance date, and any store or location restrictions.
2
Request and review disclosure
We examine police notes, video, loss prevention records, receipts, and witness statements.
3
Identify resolution options
We consider diversion, withdrawal discussions, restitution issues, plea risks, trial issues, and collateral consequences.
4
Prepare the next step
We help clients respond to the Crown position and make informed decisions before any resolution or trial.
What To Prepare
Helpful documents for your consultation.
You do not need to have everything ready before contacting us, but these items can help us understand your situation faster.
- Appearance notice, undertaking, release order, or first appearance documents
- Disclosure package, police notes, Crown screening form, and charge information
- Receipts, bank records, store records, return records, or proof of purchase
- Immigration, employment, school, or professional licensing documents if relevant
- Any trespass notice, civil recovery letter, store letter, or communication from police
- A private timeline of events and names of any witnesses
Common Questions
Shoplifting charge questions clients often ask.
Will a shoplifting charge always result in a criminal record?
Not always. Outcomes depend on the facts, prior record, Crown position, available programs, and court process. Get advice before assuming the result.
Should I pay a civil recovery letter from a store?
Get legal advice before responding. A civil recovery demand is separate from the criminal charge and should be reviewed carefully.
Can shoplifting affect immigration status?
It can. Any non-citizen charged with theft should get legal advice about both criminal and immigration consequences before resolving the case.