DENVER SHOPLIFTING ATTORNEYS
Colorado Shoplifting Laws
According to Colorado’s revised statutes section 18-4-406, it is a crime to willfully conceal goods, wares, or other merchandise that was not paid for within a mercantile establishment. Doing so is considered prima facie evidence of intent to commit theft in Denver and Colorado.
Colorado’s revised statutes section 18-4-401 states it is a crime to steal another person’s property, receive stolen goods, or receive money which is stolen. Shoplifting is often prosecuted as petty theft depending on the value of the merchandise.
How To Prove Shoplifting
To successfully convict someone of shoplifting in Denver, the state must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that these elements are satisfied:
- The defendant,
- In the State of Colorado, on the date and place charged,
- Knowingly,
- Took control of another person’s valuables,
- Without authorization (or through the use of threats or deceit), and
- Received or disposed of such valuables, and
- Used, concealed, or abandoned them,
- With the intent of permanently depriving the other person of its use or benefit.
Furthermore, section 18-4-407 grants immunity to store owners and their employees from liability for questioning someone they reasonably suspect has shoplifted from their store:
- “If any person triggers an alarm or a theft detection device…or conceals upon his person or otherwise carries away any unpurchased goods…or merchandise held or owned by any store or mercantile establishment, the merchant or any employee thereof…acting in good faith and upon probable cause based upon reasonable grounds therefor, may detain and question such person, in a reasonable manner for the purpose of ascertaining whether the person is guilty of theft. Such questioning…does not render the merchant, [or] merchant’s employee…civilly or criminally liable for slander, false arrest, false imprisonment, malicious prosecution, or unlawful detention.”
Defending Against Shoplifting Charges
Facing shoplifting charges can have serious consequences, including fines, probation, and even jail time. Our experienced Denver shoplifting attorneys at Fife Luneau, P.C. are here to help you navigate the legal process and build a strong defense for your case.
When you choose us to represent you, you can expect:
- Thorough review of the evidence against you
- Strategic legal guidance tailored to your specific situation
- Aggressive defense in negotiations and court proceedings
- Compassionate support and communication throughout your case
Don't face shoplifting charges alone.
Contact Our Denver Shoplifting Attorney Today
At Fife Luneau, P.C., we have dedicated the majority of our practice to defending people in criminal proceedings to ensure that they receive a just and fair trial that is free of government misconduct in violation of their due process rights.
Our clients can benefit from our personalized and results-driven approach to criminal defense advocacy, and so can you. We are dedicated to giving your case the necessary attention and focus, ensuring that your interests are properly served.
Call Fife Luneau, P.C. at (720) 408-7130 or contact us online to arrange a free consultation with our Denver shoplifting attorneys today.
Recent Case Victories
Because Results Matter
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Dismissed Aggravated Robbery, Assault, Violent Crime
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Dismissed Assault and Disorderly Conduct (Domestic Violence)
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Dismissed Assault in the Third Degree (Domestic Violence)
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Dismissed Attempted Murder, Assault, Menacing with a Deadly Weapon, Distribution of Marijuana
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Dismissed Careless Driving
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Dismissed Careless Driving
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“Charlie really helped me through a difficult situation. From the very beginning, he was upfront, honest and realistic about my case. Even though he is extremely busy, he was always quick to respond and took the time to provide thorough answers to all of my questions. What I appreciated most was his straightforward approach. He made it clear that if he believed he could win at trial, he would tell me, but that there was always a chance I could lose and that the final decision would always be mine. I ultimately chose to take my case to trial, which was incredibly nerve-wracking. Before trial, we had a motions hearing. Charlie had prepared a motion that was so well-written and supported by the evidence that the prosecutor decided to dismiss the case before Charlie even had to argue it. Seeing the case dismissed based on the strength of his work was a huge relief and a testament to his preparation, knowledge and attention to detail. What also stood out to me is that Charlie genuinely cares about helping people, and it shows. His years of experience are evident in everything he does, from his detailed communication throughout the process to his calm and confident demeanor in court. His emails thoroughly explained every step of the case, what to expect next and the possible outcomes. Whenever I had questions, he was almost always available for a call and took the time to make sure I understood what was happening. Because of Charlie's work, I avoided a DUI conviction, probation, fines, court costs and many of the long-term consequences that would have followed. The court also sealed the case after it was dismissed, allowing me to move forward with my life. I am incredibly grateful to Charlie and his partner Danny for their guidance and support throughout the process. If you're looking for attorneys who are honest, responsive, knowledgeable and truly dedicated to their clients, I highly recommend them.”- Johnny M.
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“This law firm was able to help a friend of mine in a difficult, new, and terrifying situation. They were able to reduce the charges to a reasonable agreement - and had exceptional courtroom delivery. If for any reason someone needs legal counsel in this area, I would wholeheartedly recommend Danny, and the rest of their firm, Fife and Luneau PC.”- Russell Beyer
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“Fife Luneau was a pleasure to do business with. They are very professional and thorough. Start to finish, well worth the money.- Joani Colwell-Shannon
Highly recommend their service!” -
“- Lani Grogan
I cannot recommend Danny and his team enough. From my very first call, he was professional, responsive, and incredibly knowledgeable. Danny and Jennifer took the time to explain every detail clearly, which gave me immense peace of mind during a stressful time. I am more than grateful for their efforts and getting the result we wanted.
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“- Chris
I can’t recommend Danny Luneau highly enough.
From day one, Danny was exactly what I needed: direct, honest, and incredibly knowledgeable. He never told me what I wanted to hear, he told me what I needed to hear. He was upfront about my chances, explained the strengths and weaknesses of my case, and laid out a strategy based on experience instead of false promises.
What stood out the most was that he was always one step ahead. Every time I had a question or concern, he had already thought about it and had a plan. He knew what arguments the prosecution was likely to make, what evidence actually mattered, what was worth fighting, and what wasn’t. Looking back, it felt like he was playing chess while everyone else was playing checkers.
I was also incredibly impressed with his understanding of marijuana DUI law and the science behind THC impairment. He understood the limitations of blood THC levels, the problems with retrograde extrapolation, and why daily users shouldn’t automatically be viewed the same way as occasional users based solely on a number. He was prepared to bring in expert testimony if necessary and challenge the prosecution with science rather than assumptions. It was obvious he has spent years building expertise in this area.
Throughout the entire process, Danny was responsive, professional, and confident. Even when I was stressed out and asking a hundred questions, he always took the time to explain his thinking and why he was approaching the case the way he was.
In the end, my case was completely dismissed and sealed. I genuinely believe that outcome was the result of Danny’s experience, preparation, and strategic approach.
If you’re looking for a lawyer who will be honest with you, fight intelligently, and know exactly how to navigate the system, Danny Luneau is worth every penny. I couldn’t be more grateful for everything he and his team did for me and my family.
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“- Daniel Justice
In a tough spot you need the best around the Denver metro area. You can count on the Law office of Fife Luneau. Holding the government accountable when you matter most.
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“- David Tillotson
Charlie is a highly reputable class A pro. I have had the pleasure of being his client and definitely recommend him and his team.
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“Danny Luneau is a good man and an amazing attorney. I was facing a misdemeanor charge and had lost my job for a mistake I made. Danny was able to have the charges dismissed and now I can focus on getting my life better. Thank you Danny! This is the second time I have come to Danny for legal defense help and there is no one else I would go to if I were ever is need. I recommend you 10,000%, he does an outstanding job. I am truly grateful!”- Dan Miller
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“The DUI process is a scary one and can be very overwhelming at time. I would 1005 suggest getting in touch with Fife and Luneau attorneys to help. I got a DUI at the end of 2025 and work with Danny Luneau who was very helpful and pointed me in the right direction to help me get start and look better Infront of the Judge by setting me up with things that would be order by the courts and probation. By getting these things started early I will be able to get off probation early. He was also able to KEEP ME OUT OF JAIL which was one if the biggest priority's as my BAC was very very high. SO if you need help with a DUI look no farther the lawyers at Fife Luneau are exactly what you need to help with this hard point in your life!”- David Recob
