Walla Walla, WA asked in Criminal Law for Washington

Q: What to expect when you were caught shoplifting from a store you were trespassed from.

Back in 2017 I was caught trying to leave a Walmart without paying for items in my cart. I signed a no trespassing promise and didn't go back for 3 years. Recently I've fallen on hard times and went into Walmart because they have the best prices in town. But I wasn't able to afford what I had (diapers, clothes, etc.) So of course I was tempted and I stole from the store. As horrible as it sounds I know how wrong it is. And I wish I could go back. But what should I expect now?

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2 Lawyer Answers
James Laukkonen
James Laukkonen
Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Olympia, WA
  • Licensed in Washington

A: Under similar circumstances, I have seen people charged with Trespass, Theft, and Burglary. By entering a place that you knew you were not allowed to be, and committing a crime there, you made it a lot worse. You will need an attorney to help you through this. It sounds as though you likely qualify for a free attorney, so make sure that you ask for one.

Patrick Owen Earl
Patrick Owen Earl
Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Moses Lake, WA
  • Licensed in Washington

A: This is bad. You could be charged with Burglary 2nd degree because you entered or remained in a building with the intent to commit a crime. The Trespass makes you going into Walmart a crime and then you either committed the CT 1 while there and/or theft. Please hire an experienced criminal defense attorney now.

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