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Video: Charged With Shoplifting in Massachusetts? How to Win Your Case
January 27, 2026
Transcript
Shoplifting Charges in Massachusetts
These Cases Are Often Winnable
Have you been charged with shoplifting in Massachusetts? Many people assume a conviction is inevitable, but in reality, these cases are often defensible and can sometimes be resolved without a criminal record.
Experience in Wrentham District Court
Attorney Tracy Paulsen of Rightful Legal recently appeared in Wrentham District Court on a shoplifting case involving the Wrentham Outlets. Although the client was arraigned, Attorney Paulsen was able to secure a favorable outcome. This result is uncommon, as shoplifting cases typically begin with a clerk magistrate hearing rather than an arraignment.
Understanding Clerk Magistrate Hearings
A clerk magistrate hearing is an informal proceeding where the clerk determines whether probable cause exists to issue a criminal complaint. The legal threshold for probable cause is low, and in many cases, it is met. However, these hearings provide an opportunity to prevent charges from issuing altogether.
Effective Defense Strategies
At clerk magistrate hearings, Attorney Paulsen regularly presents arguments focused on the client’s character, lack of criminal history, and mitigating circumstances. In appropriate cases, clients may complete a theft awareness class as part of a strategy to demonstrate accountability and rehabilitation.
Attorney Paulsen also emphasizes the long term consequences of a criminal record, including its impact on employment, education, and future opportunities, particularly because shoplifting charges appear on background checks.
Case Outcome
In this matter, even though the client was arraigned, the case was dismissed prior to arraignment. As a result, the charge will not appear on the client’s criminal record.
Why Early Legal Representation Matters
Anyone charged with shoplifting should contact an experienced attorney immediately. Early intervention can make a significant difference in whether charges issue, how a case proceeds, and whether a criminal record can be avoided.
Representation Throughout Massachusetts
Rightful Legal represents clients across Massachusetts in shoplifting cases involving major retailers, including Bloomingdale’s, Macy’s, Target, Whole Foods, and Walmart.
Contact Attorney Tracy Paulsen
If you or a loved one has been charged with shoplifting, contact Attorney Tracy Paulsen today at 617-821-5856 or visit rightfullegal.com to discuss your case.
