How to Prove You Are Innocent in a Shoplifting Case
- 1). State your case to the store manager, or store detective, from the outset. Though stores often rigidly pursue all shoplifting cases, the manager may have some discretion. If you have a genuine reason, for instance, you are taking prescribed medication that makes you confused, explain this. If you have the opportunity to ask for the support of a family member or friend, at this point, do so.
- 2). Decide how far you want to pursue the case, if the store is determined to issue a citation or complaint against you. Ask for an attorney's advice. Sometimes, an attorney will advise a person to plead guilty to the charge, and plead mitigating circumstances, rather than face the expense and the publicity of fighting the case.
- 3). Attend the arraignment and pretrial conference with your attorney, if you are determined to pursue the case. Your attorney will enter a plea on your behalf. Cooperate with your attorney if she wishes to gather any supporting evidence. This might include character references, or a physician's note. Attend the trial. Listen to the prosecution evidence.Your attorney can cross-question the prosecution. Accept the verdict of the court.