In Washington State, shoplifting is one of the most common juvenile offenses, but it’s far from harmless. While it may seem minor, taking items without paying can lead to serious legal and personal consequences. For teens, shoplifting isn’t just about a quick mistake—it’s an action that could follow them for years if not handled properly.

What is Shoplifting in Washington?

In Washington, shoplifting is considered a type of theft under state law. While most people think of theft as taking something without permission, shoplifting specifically refers to stealing merchandise from a store. However, shoplifting doesn’t just mean sneaking an item out of the store—it can include other actions, like:

- Switching Price Tags: Changing a price tag to pay less than the listed amount.

- Hiding Items: Concealing merchandise in a bag, jacket, or pocket with the intent to leave without paying.

- Using Someone Else’s Payment Information: Charging a purchase to another person without their consent.

Washington law treats shoplifting as theft in the third, second, or first degree, depending on the value of the stolen items. Here's how these categories are defined:

- Third-Degree Theft: For items worth $750 or less (a gross misdemeanor).

- Second-Degree Theft: For items worth more than $750 but less than $5,000 (a Class C felony).

- First-Degree Theft: For items worth $5,000 or more (a Class B felony).

How Shoplifting Laws Apply to Juveniles in Seattle

When a minor (someone under 18) is caught shoplifting in Seattle, their case is typically handled in Washington’s juvenile justice system. Unlike adult criminal court, the juvenile system focuses on rehabilitation instead of punishment. However, this doesn’t mean shoplifting charges are brushed aside.

Adjudication vs. Trial

In Washington, juvenile offenders don’t go through a criminal trial. Instead, they attend an adjudication hearing, where the court determines whether they committed a "delinquent act" (the juvenile equivalent of a crime). Minors have the right to a lawyer during this process, which is essential for ensuring a fair outcome.

Consequences for Juveniles Caught Shoplifting in Seattle

The penalties for shoplifting depend on how much the stolen items are worth, if it’s your first offense, and whether you’ve been in trouble before. Courts treat shoplifting as a serious matter, however, they also realize that teenagers make mistakes. The goal of the courts is to help juveniles learn from their mistakes and make better choices in the future.

First-Time Offenders

For a teen’s first shoplifting offense, Washington courts often suggest diversion programs. Unlike jail time or other consequences, these programs teach responsibility and provide education instead of focusing on punishment. 

They may include:

- Attending an educational workshop about theft and its consequences.

- Completing community service hours.

- Writing a letter of apology to the store or affected parties.

- Maintaining good grades and regular school attendance.

Successfully completing a diversion program can prevent the offense from appearing on the minor’s permanent record.

Repeat or Serious Offenses

If a minor has prior offenses or the theft involved high-value items, the court may impose stricter penalties, such as:

- Probation: The minor may have to meet regularly with a probation officer and follow specific conditions, such as curfews.

- Juvenile Detention: In rare cases involving repeat offenses or felony-level shoplifting, minors can be sent to a juvenile detention center.

- Restitution: The court may require the minor to pay back the value of the stolen merchandise.

Call Lewis & Laws If Your Child Is Arrested for Shoplifting

Shoplifting might seem like a small mistake, but for teens in Washington State, it can have serious consequences. At Lewis & Laws, our Seattle theft crime defense attorneys are here to guide you through this difficult time. We’ve helped juveniles and families in Seattle through theft and shoplifting charges, and we can do the same for you.

We offer aggressive legal assistance to individuals from Seattle, Bellevue, Everett, and Washington State. Contact us today to explore your legal options. Protect your future and call us today!