Theft/Shoplifting

Theft and Other Misdemeanor Crimes

General Form

Shoplifting may seem like a minor offense to many people. However, conviction of theft and other misdemeanor crimes can have major consequences for an individual's immigration status. Shoplifting is viewed as a crime of moral turpitude, and more than one conviction may make a foreign national eligible for removal proceedings. For citizens, conviction of a theft crime can be either a felony or a gross misdemeanor, depending on the amount or value of the alleged theft.

Defending immigrants and citizens against all theft charges

At the Amini Law Firm, P.S., we defend immigrants and citizens against all charges of theft. The Revised Code of Washington defines theft as wrongfully obtaining or exerting "unauthorized control over the property or services of another." In addition to retail theft, or shoplifting, it includes offenses such as fraud, embezzlement, extortion, and theft of services, such as cable TV. If you have been charged with theft, it is important to contact a lawyer dedicated to preserving your rights.

Working to reduce the consequences of a theft charge

We also try to protect your future, working to minimize the immigration consequences of a misdemeanor charge or conviction and making sure that you are facing the least serious theft charges. We advocate for dropping the charges whenever possible, trying to keep the arrest and charge off your record. Depending on the circumstances, we may be able to negotiate with the victim to accept restitution rather than pursuing criminal charges.

Our Bellevue law firm is committed to providing you the most effective defense possible. Whether that involves fighting the charges at trial, pleading guilty to a reduced charge, or negotiating a lesser penalty, we are dedicated to arriving at the best outcome possible for our clients. If you have been charged with theft or any misdemeanor crime, contact our northwest Washington law firm, serving Kirkland, Seattle, and Redmond.

Experienced, Aggressive, and On Your Side