Shoplifting

Work with an Experienced Boston Juvenile Defense Lawyer to Protect Your Child’s Future

If your child has been caught shoplifting, it can be an overwhelming experience for the whole family. Even when no harm was intended, a shoplifting charge can lead to court involvement, school discipline, and a permanent juvenile record. At The Law Office of Patrick J. Murphy, we understand how stressful this situation can be—and how important it is to handle it the right way. As a seasoned Boston juvenile shoplifting lawyer, Attorney Murphy helps young clients avoid lasting consequences and works toward solutions that focus on growth, not punishment.

What Counts as Shoplifting in Massachusetts?

Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 266, Section 30A, shoplifting includes more than just walking out with unpaid merchandise. A juvenile may be charged with shoplifting if they are accused of:

• Concealing merchandise in a bag or under clothing
• Altering or swapping price tags
• Removing items from packaging
• Transferring items to a different container
• Walking past the final point of sale without paying

Even a minor act, like hiding a small item in a pocket, can lead to serious consequences. Store security footage and loss prevention officers often play a key role in these cases, but their reports are not always accurate or fair.

Penalties for Juvenile Shoplifting Charges

Although juvenile court focuses more on rehabilitation than punishment, shoplifting charges are still taken seriously. The potential consequences can include:

• Probation with conditions such as counseling or community service
• Restitution to the store
• Diversion program participation
• A court appearance and formal juvenile record
• Possible school-related consequences, such as suspension

For first-time offenders, especially young teens, courts are often willing to explore informal resolutions—but only if the case is handled correctly from the start.

Common Defenses to Juvenile Shoplifting Charges

Just because your child was stopped by store security does not mean they are guilty. Attorney Murphy reviews every detail of the incident and may raise defenses such as:

• Lack of intent: Shoplifting requires intent to permanently deprive the store of property. If your child forgot to pay or was distracted, that may not be a crime.
• Mistaken identity: In busy stores, especially during after-school hours, confusion is common. If there is no clear surveillance or conflicting witness accounts, the accusation may not hold up.
• Unlawful search or detention: Store employees and security must follow specific rules. If they overstep, evidence they collected could be challenged.
• Parental presence and rights: In juvenile cases, law enforcement must follow procedures when detaining or questioning minors. Violations may lead to a dismissal.

As a Boston juvenile shoplifting lawyer, Attorney Murphy understands how to raise these defenses and work toward outcomes that avoid formal charges.

Why Early Intervention Matters

Shoplifting cases often begin with a Clerk Magistrate Hearing. This is an informal proceeding where the court decides whether there is enough evidence to move forward. Many families do not realize that with proper legal representation, it may be possible to stop the case before charges are ever filed.

Attorney Murphy has helped many families resolve these matters discreetly—sometimes through restitution or diversion—before they ever reach the courtroom. Acting early increases the odds that your child can walk away without a record.

What to Do If Your Child Is Accused of Shoplifting

If your child has been detained or charged with shoplifting, try to stay calm and take the following steps:

• Do not allow your child to speak to store personnel or police without an attorney
• Collect any documents or video you can obtain from the store
• Write down everything your child remembers, including what they said and what store security did
• Contact a lawyer as soon as possible

Avoiding formal court involvement is often the top priority. A Boston juvenile shoplifting lawyer can help you evaluate your child’s options and decide the best path forward.

Related Offenses

Shoplifting charges sometimes accompany or stem from related allegations, including:

• Theft from other students or lockers
• Malicious destruction of property
• Disorderly conduct
• Trespassing
• Underage alcohol possession

The Law Office of Patrick J. Murphy defends all types of juvenile offenses and knows how to address the full context of the situation.

Speak with a Boston Juvenile Shoplifting Lawyer Today

A shoplifting charge may seem like a small issue, but it can lead to long-term issues if it is not handled properly. The Law Office of Patrick J. Murphy provides compassionate, strategic legal guidance to families across Massachusetts. If your child is facing accusations of shoplifting, do not wait. Call (617) 367-0450 today to speak with a Boston juvenile shoplifting lawyer who will work to protect their future.