How to Protect Your Teen if They’re Arrested for Shoplifting in Tucson
If your teen has been arrested for shoplifting in Tucson, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed and uncertain. While it may seem like a minor offense, shoplifting is taken seriously under Arizona law, especially when it involves juveniles. The consequences can include fines, probation, community service, and even detention. Janet Altschuler can help you act quickly and thoughtfully to protect your child’s rights and future.
Stay Calm and Gather Information
Your first step should be to remain calm and gather as much information as possible. Find out where your teen is being held, what they are accused of taking, and whether they have been officially charged. Teens may not fully understand the legal process or how to speak with authorities, so getting clarity on the situation will help you make informed decisions.
Avoid Letting Your Teen Speak Without an Attorney
One of the most important steps you can take is to ensure your teen does not speak to law enforcement without an attorney present. Even seemingly innocent answers can be used against them. Juveniles may feel intimidated or pressured to confess. Having a lawyer for shoplifting, like Janet Altschuler, ensures that your teen’s rights are upheld during questioning and that nothing is said that could worsen their legal position.
Know the Potential Consequences
Shoplifting may be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony in Arizona, depending on the value of the item stolen and whether it’s a first offense. For teens, a first offense is often handled in juvenile court, where the focus is rehabilitation rather than punishment. However, a conviction can still lead to a juvenile record, which might affect college applications, employment opportunities, and eligibility for certain programs. Make sure you hire Janet Altschuler as your lawyer for juvenile court.
Explore Diversion Programs
In many cases, your attorney may be able to secure a diversion program for your teen. Diversion allows juveniles to complete education, counseling, or community service in exchange for having the charges dismissed. This outcome can keep your teen’s record clean and help them learn from the experience without long-term consequences. Janet Altschuler is an experienced defense attorney who can advocate for diversion and other favorable outcomes.
Support Your Teen Through the Process
While your child may be facing legal issues, they still need your emotional support. Talk openly about the consequences of their actions but also reinforce your willingness to help them through it. Teens often make impulsive decisions, and one mistake shouldn’t define their future. Working with a skilled attorney can help ensure the legal process supports their rehabilitation and not just punishment.
Protecting your teen’s rights requires more than just good intentions—it takes legal knowledge and courtroom experience. Janet Altschuler has dedicated her career to criminal defense law and understands how the juvenile justice system works. If your child has been arrested for shoplifting in Tucson, AZ, don’t wait to get help. Contact her today to discuss your teen’s case and explore your options for the best possible outcome.