What to Do When Your Child is Charged with Retail Theft
When you get the phone call, your mind starts racing. Your child has been charged with retail theft – and you aren’t quite sure what to do next.
Whether your child is a minor or an adult, the first thing you should do is get in touch with a Rolling Meadows lawyer who has experience in shoplifting cases. He’ll handle the legal aspects of your child’s case so that you can take care of your family.
Relax – It Will Work Out for the Best
Many parents begin to panic when they find out that their child is being charged with a crime, but that can be counterproductive. You may be shocked, angry and confused, but you can process those emotions without panic when you understand that your lawyer is in your child’s corner.
Gather Information about Shoplifting
Retail theft is commonly called shoplifting, and it can be considered a misdemeanor or a felony. The classification depends on the dollar value of the items taken. Shoplifting is a misdemeanor when the value of the items totals less than $300; when it totals more than $300, it’s a felony.
A few other factors can affect the way your child is charged, including whether he or she was caught in possession of (or actively using) a theft detection device remover or shielding device. Because no two cases are identical, it’s best to ask your lawyer any case-specific questions you have.
Support Your Child… and Yourself
While it’s difficult to rally in support of your child during a difficult time like this, it may be the best thing you can do. Psychologists suggest that sticking things out together can make a big difference in how likely your child is to learn from their mistakes – and the more they learn, the better.
You also need to make sure you get the support from friends and family that you deserve. You’re in a tough position, and sometimes talking about what you’re going through can lift a huge burden off your shoulders.
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