Video: Accused of Shoplifting in Massachusetts? This ONE Hearing Can Save Your Record!
December 04, 2025
Transcript
Introduction: Accused of shoplifting in Massachusetts
Were you or someone you love caught or accused of shoplifting in Massachusetts? If so, here’s something most people don’t know: many shoplifting cases never become criminal charges at all — if you handle the Clerk Magistrate Hearing correctly the first time. I’m attorney Tracy Paulsen with Rightful Legal, and I’ve helped many people throughout Massachusetts avoid criminal records by fighting shoplifting accusations at the very first stage of the process.
Why many shoplifting cases never become criminal charges
In many cases, a shoplifting accusation does not automatically turn into a formal criminal charge. You often have an opportunity to stop the case before it ever reaches court.
How the Clerk Magistrate Hearing works
If you’re accused of shoplifting and not arrested, your case usually begins with something called a Clerk Magistrate Hearing, also known as a show cause hearing. This hearing decides one major question:
Should this case become a formal criminal charge, or should it end right here?
Meaning of receiving a hearing notice
If you received a notice for a Clerk Magistrate Hearing in the mail, it means:
- You have not been charged yet.
- Your record is still clean.
- You have a chance to stop the charge before it ever reaches a judge.
Step-by-step explanation of the hearing process
At the hearing, the Clerk Magistrate will hear the evidence, usually from loss prevention or police. Then, you or your attorney will have a chance to respond. The clerk can decide to:
- Issue a criminal complaint
- Decide there is not enough evidence for probable cause
- Decline to issue the charge and give you a break
This is your best chance to keep your record clean — but only if the hearing is handled carefully and strategically.
How an attorney can challenge evidence
An attorney experienced in shoplifting cases can make a significant difference. At a Clerk Magistrate Hearing, I can:
- Challenge the store’s evidence
- Point out errors or inconsistencies in their report
- Demonstrate that the incident was a misunderstanding
- Present your background and circumstances
- Negotiate a resolution
- And most importantly, persuade the clerk not to issue the criminal charge
Real examples of shoplifting cases dismissed
I’ve had many successes at these hearings, including stopping charges for:
- First-time shoplifting
- Accidental scanning or bagging mistakes
- Misidentification by store security
- Juvenile shoplifting cases
- Small-item or honest-mistake situations
In many cases, clients walked out with no charges, no court dates, and no criminal record. Even if your case has already been arraigned, I can still work to reduce or dismiss the charges — but the Clerk Magistrate stage is the best chance to keep your record clean.
Why hiring the right attorney matters
Even one shoplifting charge — even a small one — can stay on your record and impact your:
- Job opportunities
- Housing
- Education
- Immigration status
You need someone who knows the Massachusetts courts, understands the process, and knows how to present your case in a way that the clerk will respect.
Protecting your future: jobs, housing, immigration
When you work with me, you don’t get judgment — you get a plan. I prepare you for every question, gather the right supporting documents, speak on your behalf, and fight to protect your future.
How to contact Rightful Legal
If you’re facing a shoplifting accusation or received a Clerk Magistrate Hearing notice, please call or text me at 617-821-5856.
You can also visit rightfullegal.com for a free and confidential case review.
Final message: One mistake shouldn’t define you
A single mistake or misunderstanding should not define your life. Let me help you stop this charge before it ever becomes part of your record. Please like, comment, or share this video for future updates. Thank you so much. Have a great day.


