Shoplifting and Theft by Minors

Shoplifting & Theft by Minors in Georgia | Juvenile Defense Attorney in Atlanta, Georgia

Accused of Shoplifting or Theft? Don’t Let One Mistake Define Your Child’s Future

Shoplifting and petty theft are some of the most common juvenile offenses in Georgia—but that doesn’t mean they’re minor in the eyes of the law. A single accusation can lead to juvenile court involvement, probation, fines, restitution, school discipline, and even a permanent record if not handled properly.

At Khalil Eaddy Trial Attorney, we defend minors charged with theft and shoplifting in Atlanta, Georgia, working to resolve cases discreetly and constructively. Our priority is protecting your child’s future through diversion, informal resolutions, and where necessary, strategic litigation in juvenile court.

Shoplifting Charges in Georgia (O.C.G.A. § 16-8-14)

Georgia defines shoplifting as the act of unlawfully taking or attempting to take merchandise from a retail establishment, including:

Hiding items in bags or clothing
Switching price tags
Altering barcodes
Removing or bypassing security devices
Walking out without paying

Charge Levels:

Misdemeanor Shoplifting: Property worth $500 or less
Felony Shoplifting: Property worth more than $500, or multiple prior convictions

Even a first-time offense can lead to:

Arrest and detention
Juvenile court adjudication
Probation, restitution, and counseling
A delinquency record that impacts school and jobs

Don’t assume shoplifting is a “slap on the wrist.” Many stores have zero-tolerance policies, and prosecutors may aggressively pursue charges—even for minors.

Theft by Taking (O.C.G.A. § 16-8-2)

This broader charge includes:

Stealing from another student, teacher, or school
Taking property from homes, vehicles, or lockers
Theft of phones, electronics, money, or bikes

Depending on the value and circumstances, it can be charged as:

Misdemeanor (less than $1,500)
Felony (more than $1,500 or involving certain victims or public property)

We work to challenge the evidence, explore intent, and present mitigating circumstances such as:

Lack of criminal intent
Mistaken identity
Misunderstanding of ownership
First-time youthful behavior

What Happens When a Minor is Caught Shoplifting in Atlanta, Georgia?

Detention or Release to Parents
- Police or store security may detain the child until a parent arrives
- Juveniles may be taken to a Regional Youth Detention Center (RYDC)
Intake Review
- A juvenile intake officer evaluates the case to decide whether to:
  - Dismiss it
  - Offer an informal adjustment (diversion)
  - Send it to juvenile court
Court Hearings
- If formally charged, the juvenile faces:
  - Adjudication hearing (juvenile equivalent of trial)
  - Disposition hearing (sentencing if found delinquent)

First-Time Offender and Diversion Options

For minors with no prior offenses, Georgia courts often offer:

Informal adjustment agreements
Pretrial diversion or accountability courts
Community service and restitution
Anti-theft education classes
Dismissal upon successful program completion

We work closely with court officials to negotiate these alternatives and avoid formal adjudication whenever possible.

School Discipline for Theft-Related Offenses

In addition to legal consequences, schools may impose:

Suspensions or expulsions
Loss of extracurricular privileges
Referrals to juvenile court or school resource officers (SROs)

We advocate for your child during both legal and educational proceedings to prevent long-term academic harm.

Sealing and Expunging Juvenile Theft Records

If your child’s case is resolved favorably or with successful program completion, they may be eligible to have the record sealed or expunged, helping them:

Apply to college or jobs without disclosing a criminal history
Avoid housing and scholarship denials
Move forward with a clean slate

We handle petitions to restrict or destroy juvenile records and ensure compliance with all eligibility requirements.

Accused of Shoplifting or Theft in Atlanta, Georgia? Call Now.

Don’t let a youthful mistake become a permanent stain. Whether your child was caught in a store, at school, or in the community, we’ll work to protect their rights and reputation—and keep their record clean.

Confidential Consultations for Parents & Juveniles Available

Call 770-303-0700 today for a confidential consultation and start building your defense.

At Khalil Eaddy Trial Attorney, we don’t believe one poor decision should define a child’s future. Let us help your family take control and move forward.