Initial appearance court (Intake, Transfer and Release)
The first court date after an arrest, within 24 hours. Release conditions, including any no-contact order, are set here.
2670 S. 28th Dr., Phoenix, AZ 85009
Scottsdale organized retail theft defense
Organized Retail Theft Lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ
The paperwork tells a story. We read all of it.
A stop outside a store at Scottsdale Fashion Square, Kierland Commons or a big box store on Shea Boulevard can lead to a charge that sounds like a crime ring even when one person acted alone. Organized retail theft is a felony at any dollar amount, so a bag of cosmetics can carry the same class as a much larger loss.
We can help. Nova Law Group was built by a former Maricopa County Attorney's Office felony prosecutor. We prepare every case as if it is going to trial, and we take a meticulous, aggressive approach, fighting from every angle, because the report is only one side of the story.
Talk to us before you talk to anyone else. Call (480) 405-6767. Consultations are free and confidential, and the earlier we are involved, the more we can do.
FounderRyan TaitFormer Maricopa County Attorney's Office felony prosecutorMeet Ryan →★ 5-star reviewsFormer felony prosecutorAvailable after hoursFlat fee on most criminal casesFree, confidential consultation
Where we practice
From the store's back office to the County Attorney
First court date
Within 24 hours of an arrest. On a felony, release conditions are set at the jail court, 2670 S. 28th Dr. in Phoenix.
Misdemeanor
The Scottsdale City Attorney's Prosecution Division brings it in Scottsdale City Court, 3700 N. 75th St.
Felony
The County Attorney brings it in Superior Court in downtown Phoenix, 201 W. Jefferson St. or 175 W. Madison St.
Other agencies
A DPS or Sheriff's case can be assigned to a county justice court, such as McDowell Mountain Justice Court.
The first people involved are usually store employees. Under A.R.S. § 13-1805(C), a merchant or employee with reasonable cause may detain someone suspected of shoplifting, but only on the premises, only in a reasonable way and for a reasonable period, and only to ask questions or summon an officer. The loss prevention summary, the store's video clip and anything you said or signed in that room often become the State's first exhibits.
Then Scottsdale Police takes over. Seized items, from a lined bag to a phone, go to the department's Property and Evidence unit on McKellips Road, which describes a traceable chain of custody for each one. If a phone is searched, the Digital Forensics Unit can recover listings and messages that the State may offer as proof of a plan to resell.
The charge itself is a choice. The same facts can be written up as organized retail theft, a class 4 felony for the County Attorney, or as shoplifting, which under $1,000, with no device and no qualifying priors, is a class 1 misdemeanor that Scottsdale's Prosecution Division brings in City Court. Because shoplifting of $2,000 or less can be reported on the city's online form, a case can surface after you have gone home.
A felony arrest means the county system. Scottsdale holds initial appearances only for city charges, so a felony booking goes to the County Initial Appearance court at the Intake, Transfer and Release facility, 2670 S. 28th Dr., where a magistrate must see the person within 24 hours. Release terms there can keep you out of named stores.
The County Attorney's review comes next: the reviewing prosecutor can send the report back for more work, decline it, refer it to another office, or charge it by direct complaint or grand jury. A series reaching other counties may go to the Attorney General's Office instead. Either way the case is heard in Superior Court downtown (confirm the building on your current notice), and we handle these matters whichever office brought the charge.
Diversion has real limits. The County Attorney's Felony Diversion policy, revised August 7, 2025, includes class 4 felonies, but only once a case is charged, with offers expected before arraignment, and only when total restitution owed is $2,000 or less. A large claimed loss can put a case outside it even when the class qualifies.
The law
What A.R.S. § 13-1819 requires
Section 13-1819 can be violated two ways, by one person or several. The first is taking merchandise out of a retail establishment unpaid, intending to sell it again or trade it for money or something else of value (§ 13-1819(A)(1)). The second is using an artifice, instrument, container, device or other article to help get merchandise out without paying (§ 13-1819(A)(2)). Either way it is a class 4 felony (§ 13-1819(B)), with no minimum value and no group requirement.
Shoplifting under A.R.S. § 13-1805 covers much of the same conduct with a value ladder. Under $1,000 it is a class 1 misdemeanor unless the item is a firearm; $1,000 to under $2,000 is a class 6 felony; $2,000 or more, a continuing criminal episode or gang or syndicate activity makes it class 5 (§ 13-1805(H)). Using an artifice or device, or having two or more listed prior offenses within five years, makes shoplifting a class 4 felony (§ 13-1805(I)), and using such an article also supports a presumption of the required mental state (§ 13-1805(B)(2)).
For a first class 4 felony, A.R.S. § 13-702(D) runs from 1 year mitigated to 3.75 aggravated, with 2.5 presumptive. Probation is available to an eligible person (A.R.S. § 13-901(A)) for up to four years on class 4 (A.R.S. § 13-902(A)). The court must order restitution of the full economic loss (A.R.S. § 13-603(C)) and may fine up to $150,000 (A.R.S. § 13-801(A)). A county attorney's program may divert or defer a prosecution before a plea or trial (A.R.S. § 11-361).
Organized Retail Theft Lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ
What we test in a Scottsdale retail theft case
Avoiding jail is not the same as avoiding a conviction. A felony conviction makes a person a prohibited possessor under A.R.S. § 13-3101(A)(7)(b), and 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) adds a federal bar. A prior organized retail theft also counts toward the two offenses that can turn a later shoplifting into a class 4 felony (§ 13-1805(I)). A class 4 record can be set aside after the sentence (A.R.S. § 13-905(A)) and sealed five years after the nonmonetary terms and discharge, once fines, fees and restitution are paid (A.R.S. § 13-911(E)(2), (G)). Noncitizens should ask about 8 U.S.C. § 1227(a)(2) before any plea.
Resale intent needs evidence
Quantities that fit household use, no listings and no messages about selling can undercut paragraph (A)(1), and without it the facts may fit shoplifting instead.
An ordinary bag is not a device
Paragraph (A)(2) turns on an article used to facilitate removal; a purse carried the usual way differs from a foil-lined bag or a tool for removing security tags.
Removal is part of the charge
The statute is written around taking merchandise out of the store, which makes the spot where you were stopped relevant.
The detention has limits
We look at how long you were held, how you were treated and whether a phone was searched with a warrant or valid consent.
Bundled reports need separate proof
When a detective links several stores or dates, each clip must show the same person.
The law
Sources: Arizona statutes and Cornell Law School
Texts for the legal points on this page:
- § 13-1819, the organized retail theft statute (azleg.gov)
- § 13-1805, shoplifting, store detentions and tiers (azleg.gov)
- § 13-702, the class 4 sentencing range (azleg.gov)
- § 13-901, when a court may order probation (azleg.gov)
- § 13-902, how long probation can last (azleg.gov)
- § 13-603, restitution to the retailer (azleg.gov)
- § 13-801, the felony fine ceiling (azleg.gov)
- § 11-361, county diversion programs (azleg.gov)
- § 13-3101, felony convictions and firearms (azleg.gov)
- § 13-905, applying to set aside a conviction (azleg.gov)
- § 13-911, sealing waits and payment rule (azleg.gov)
- Wex on shoplifting (Cornell LII)
- 18 U.S.C. § 922, felony firearm bar (Cornell LII)
- 8 U.S.C. § 1227, criminal removal grounds for noncitizens (Cornell LII)
The charges
A former felony prosecutor who knows the charging choice
Nova Law Group was built by Ryan Tait, a former Maricopa County Attorney's Office felony prosecutor. The practice is criminal defense first. We keep caseloads deliberately low, which means the lawyers on your case have time to actually watch the video and read the reports line by line, loss prevention notes included. We take retail theft cases to trial when trial is the right pressure. Overcharging happens, and a case that is genuinely prepared for trial changes the conversation with the prosecutor. Most criminal cases are quoted as a flat fee. Consultations are free and confidential.
Former felony prosecutorBuilt by a former Maricopa County Attorney's Office felony prosecutor.
Low caseloadsTime to watch the video and read the reports line by line.
Ready for trialA case prepared for trial changes the conversation with the prosecutor.
Flat feeMost criminal cases are quoted as a flat fee. Consultations are free and confidential.
Our office
Meet us on Camelback Road
Office: 4455 E. Camelback Rd., Suite C250, Phoenix, AZ 85018. Meetings are by appointment.
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Resources
Scottsdale courts and official links
Where a Scottsdale case is heard depends on the charge and the agency. Some courts are in Scottsdale and some are in Phoenix. Each card has directions and the official website, so you can check details before you go.
Scottsdale City Court
City misdemeanors, from arraignment to trial. Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
3700 N. 75th St., Scottsdale, AZ 85251Maricopa County Attorney's Office
Decides felony charges in Maricopa County and prosecutes them in Superior Court.
225 W. Madison St., Phoenix, AZ 85003Maricopa County Superior Court, downtown
Felony cases prosecuted by the County Attorney. Confirm the building on your current notice.
Central Court Building, 201 W. Jefferson St., and South Court Tower, 175 W. Madison St., Phoenix, AZ 85003McDowell Mountain Justice Court
A misdemeanor reported by DPS or a Sheriff's deputy can be assigned to a county justice court like this one. Your citation names the court.
18380 N. 40th St., Suite 130, Phoenix, AZ 85032Laws cited on this page
- A.R.S. § 13-1805, Shoplifting; detaining suspect; defense to wrongful detention; civil action by merchant
- A.R.S. § 13-702, First time felony offenders; sentencing; definition
- A.R.S. § 13-901, Probation
- A.R.S. § 13-902, Periods of probation; monitoring; fees
- A.R.S. § 13-603, Authorized disposition of offenders
- A.R.S. § 13-801, Fines for felonies
- A.R.S. § 11-361, Definition of program
- A.R.S. § 13-3101, Definitions
- A.R.S. § 13-905, Setting aside judgment of convicted person on discharge; application; release from disabilities
- A.R.S. § 13-911, Sealing of arrest, conviction and sentencing records; requirements; fee; appeal; definition
- A.R.S. § 13-1819, Organized retail theft; classification
Common questions
Scottsdale organized retail theft questions
Arizona lets a merchant or its employees detain someone on the premises with reasonable cause, in a reasonable manner and for a reasonable time, to ask questions or call police. Whether your detention met that standard is a fact question. Anything you said or signed there may come up later, so write down what you remember and bring any paperwork to a lawyer.
Yes. A store report can reach Scottsdale Police after you leave, and the County Attorney reviews felony reports on its own schedule, so a detective's call or a summons can come weeks later. Do not explain the incident to the detective or the store; let a lawyer find out what has been submitted first.
Sometimes. Whether facts are charged as organized retail theft or as shoplifting is a prosecutor's decision, and shoplifting under $1,000 without a device or qualifying priors is a class 1 misdemeanor heard in City Court. Arguments about resale intent and the alleged device can influence that decision.
Possibly. The County Attorney's Felony Diversion policy covers class 4 felonies, but only after charging, with offers expected before arraignment, and only when total restitution owed is $2,000 or less. The deputy county attorney decides eligibility; there is no right to it.
Organized Retail Theft Lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ
Stopped at a Scottsdale store?
Call (480) 405-6767. If a detective has called, or someone is in custody, a phone call reaches us faster than the form.
Nova Law Group, PLLC, 4455 E. Camelback Rd., Suite C250, Phoenix, AZ 85018. Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., by appointment.
Client reviews
Hear What Our Clients Say
From our Google reviews, plus Yelp and Avvo. These are clients’ own words, reproduced from our review profiles.
★★★★★
“These guys are the best attorneys in all of Arizona. It is definitely the most professional group of lawyers… I recommend this firm!”
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“Sydney was extremely thorough regarding every single detail of my criminal case… it ultimately resulted in a clear and powerful win for my case.”
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“They fought tirelessly for my case and helped me achieve a favorable outcome. Exceptional service and results.”
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“The firm provided me with the most professional legal representation possible. Mr. Ryan Tait patiently explained… beyond my expectations.”
★★★★★
“The best law firm that I have ever dealt with. The amount of passion & commitment that they dedicated for my case… truly what separated them from other law firms.”
★★★★★
“Oh my goodness, our lawyer Ryan Tait was amazing. He does what he says he’s going to do. A very patient lawyer… He’s a miracle worker.”
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“Ryan Tait was amazing and really helpful. I would recommend him.”
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“Alexis Brooks was my lawyer… She was extremely professional yet down to earth and always made me feel at ease and confident in my case. I would definitely recommend her for anyone that needs an excellent defense attorney.”
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“Spectacular representation! Sydney was very compassionate, diligent and professional. I can’t recommend enough.”
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“…Ryan and his team are kind, understanding, and very good listeners. Each member of his team was well educated, knowledgable and very professional.”
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“We hired Mr. Tait to handle a legal affair for a member of our family. It was a complex criminal case that required over two years of work! Through the entire effort, Mr. Tait kept us informed…”
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“My family hired Ryan Tait to fight for my family member… He went over all the pros and cons. He answered all our questions and calls. He knows what he is doing.”
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“Ryan is absolutely awesome and professional. He gave me all detailed advice I needed. He is nice and patient. I definitely recommend Ryan and his law firm!”
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“These guys are great!! They did a great job on my case, super consistent and helpful. Definitely will recommend them to anyone.”
★★★★★
“Excellent lawyers… and their honesty, and they helped me even though I do not live in Arizona.”
Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Reseñas de clientes
Lo que dicen nuestros clientes
De nuestras reseñas en Google, además de Yelp y Avvo. Son las palabras de nuestros clientes, tomadas de nuestros perfiles de reseñas y traducidas del inglés.
★★★★★
“Son los mejores abogados de todo Arizona. Sin duda es el grupo de abogados más profesional… ¡Recomiendo esta firma!”
★★★★★
“Sydney fue sumamente minuciosa con cada detalle de mi caso penal… al final, eso resultó en una victoria clara y contundente para mi caso.”
★★★★★
“Lucharon incansablemente por mi caso y me ayudaron a lograr un resultado favorable. Servicio y resultados excepcionales.”
★★★★★
“La firma me brindó la representación legal más profesional posible. El Sr. Ryan Tait me explicó con paciencia… más allá de mis expectativas.”
★★★★★
“La mejor firma de abogados con la que he tratado. La pasión y el compromiso que dedicaron a mi caso… es lo que realmente los distinguió de otras firmas.”
★★★★★
“¡Dios mío, nuestro abogado Ryan Tait fue increíble! Cumple lo que dice que va a hacer. Un abogado muy paciente… Hace milagros.”
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★★★★★
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★★★★★
“Ryan Tait fue increíble y de gran ayuda. Lo recomendaría.”
★★★★★
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“Alexis Brooks fue mi abogada… Fue sumamente profesional y a la vez sencilla, y siempre me hizo sentir tranquilo y seguro con mi caso. Sin duda la recomendaría a cualquiera que necesite una excelente abogada defensora.”
★★★★★
“¡Representación espectacular! Sydney fue muy compasiva, diligente y profesional. No puedo recomendarla lo suficiente.”
★★★★★
“…Ryan y su equipo son amables, comprensivos y saben escuchar. Cada miembro de su equipo demostró estar bien preparado, con conocimiento y gran profesionalismo.”
★★★★★
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★★★★★
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★★★★★
“Excelentes abogados… y su honestidad y eso que me ayudaron que yo no vivo en Arizona”
Los resultados anteriores no garantizan un resultado similar.
Talk to a Scottsdale criminal defense lawyer
If you have been arrested, charged, or contacted by a detective in Scottsdale, the decisions you make in the first few days matter. We defend misdemeanors in Scottsdale City Court and the justice courts, and felonies in Maricopa County Superior Court downtown.
Free, confidential consultation: (480) 405-6767
Prefer not to call? Send us your case details and a member of our team will follow up with you.
Scottsdale courts
- Scottsdale City CourtMisdemeanors prosecuted by the Scottsdale City Attorney. Free parking in front and in the Civic Center garage.3700 N. 75th St., Scottsdale, AZ 85251Court website Directions
- McDowell Mountain Justice CourtSome DPS and Sheriff's Office cases. Your citation names the court.18380 N. 40th St., Suite 130, Phoenix, AZ 85032Court website Directions
- Maricopa County Superior CourtFelonies, at the downtown criminal court complex.Central Court Building, 201 W. Jefferson St., and South Court Tower, 175 W. Madison St., Phoenix, AZ 85003Court website Directions
Our office: Nova Law Group, PLLC, 4455 E. Camelback Rd., Suite C250, Phoenix, AZ 85018. Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., by appointment. Directions
Hable con un abogado de defensa penal en Scottsdale
Si lo arrestaron, lo acusaron o un detective lo contactó en Scottsdale, las decisiones que tome en los primeros días importan. Defendemos delitos menores en la Corte de la Ciudad de Scottsdale y en las cortes de justicia, y delitos graves en la Corte Superior del Condado de Maricopa en el centro de Phoenix.
Consulta gratuita y confidencial: (480) 405-6767
¿Prefiere no llamar? Envíenos los detalles de su caso y un miembro de nuestro equipo se comunicará con usted.
Cortes de Scottsdale
- Corte de la Ciudad de ScottsdaleDelitos menores que procesa el Fiscal de la Ciudad de Scottsdale. Estacionamiento gratuito al frente y en el garaje del Civic Center.3700 N. 75th St., Scottsdale, AZ 85251Sitio de la corte Cómo llegar
- Corte de Justicia McDowell MountainAlgunos casos del DPS y de la Oficina del Sheriff. Su citación indica la corte.18380 N. 40th St., Suite 130, Phoenix, AZ 85032Sitio de la corte Cómo llegar
- Corte Superior del Condado de MaricopaDelitos graves, en el complejo penal del centro.Central Court Building, 201 W. Jefferson St., and South Court Tower, 175 W. Madison St., Phoenix, AZ 85003Sitio de la corte Cómo llegar
Nuestra oficina: Nova Law Group, PLLC, 4455 E. Camelback Rd., Suite C250, Phoenix, AZ 85018. De lunes a viernes, de 8:00 a.m. a 6:00 p.m., con cita previa. Cómo llegar
RecognitionReconocimientos
Awards and ratingsPremios y calificaciones
Awards and ratings reflect the standards of the organizations that issue them. They do not predict the outcome of any case.Los premios y las calificaciones reflejan los criterios de las organizaciones que los otorgan. No predicen el resultado de ningún caso.