Is shoplifting treated differently from other theft offences?

Shoplifting is generally charged as larceny like other theft matters, though the value of goods involved and the circumstances of the incident, such as whether force or deception was used, can affect how it is dealt with. Store security footage is often central to these matters.

Can I get a non-conviction for a first larceny offence?

For a first, relatively minor offence, a court may in appropriate circumstances impose a penalty without recording a formal conviction, though this depends on factors such as the value involved and your personal circumstances. It is not guaranteed and depends on the court's assessment of your matter.

What if I intended to return the item?

Larceny requires an intention to permanently deprive the owner of the property, so a genuine intention to return an item can be relevant to whether the offence is made out, though this depends heavily on the specific facts and evidence available.

Larceny & Stealing Lawyer Parramatta

What's happening?

Larceny, commonly known as stealing, involves taking someone else's property without their consent and with an intention to permanently deprive them of it. These charges range from shoplifting and workplace theft through to more significant matters involving higher-value property.

Evidence in larceny matters often includes CCTV footage, witness statements, or records showing possession of the property in question. The value of the property and any prior history can affect how the matter is approached by police and the court.

What could it mean for me?

A larceny conviction can affect employment, particularly in roles involving handling cash or stock.
The value of the property allegedly taken can influence the seriousness with which the matter is treated.
Repeated larceny offences are generally viewed more seriously by the courts.
Some matters may be eligible for a non-conviction outcome depending on the circumstances and history.
CCTV and store records are frequently relied on as key evidence in these matters.

What are my options?

Contesting the charge where intention or identification is genuinely in dispute.
Pleading guilty and presenting mitigating material, particularly for a first offence.
Seeking a non-conviction outcome where appropriate to the circumstances.
Negotiating the value or characterisation of the property where relevant to the charge.
Addressing any underlying circumstances relevant to the offending as part of sentencing submissions.

What happens next?

Avoid discussing the allegations with store staff, security or police without advice.
Keep any receipts or evidence relevant to ownership of the property in question.
Attend your first court date and review the evidence, including any CCTV, once available.
Discuss with your lawyer whether a non-conviction outcome may be appropriate.
Consider gathering references or evidence of good character relevant to sentencing.

How can MGE Lawyers help?

We assist clients charged with larceny by reviewing the available evidence, including CCTV and witness statements, and advising honestly on the realistic prospects of contesting the charge versus resolving it through a plea.

For many larceny matters, particularly first offences, the focus is on presenting a strong case for a lenient outcome, and we help prepare the material needed to support that at sentencing.

Speak With a Criminal Lawyer 0412 151 151

Larceny