How can I defend myself against a false accusation of theft?
July 10, 2023 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Uwe Riedmüller
Dear lawyer,
I am reaching out to you as I urgently need advice and help. My name is Eiko Köhler and I have been falsely accused of theft. The situation is as follows: I was shopping in a supermarket and paid for my items as usual. When I tried to leave the store, I was suddenly stopped by an employee and accused of stealing goods worth 50 euros. I was shocked and couldn't believe it, as I have never committed any theft.
Now I am faced with the question of how to defend myself against this false accusation. I am very worried, as I fear that I may be wronged without evidence and possibly face legal action. I had no intention of stealing and have paid for all my purchases properly. Nevertheless, I am now confronted with this serious accusation and do not know how to defend myself.
What steps can I take to prove my innocence and successfully defend myself against this accusation? Are there legal options to prove my innocence and protect my reputation? I am grateful for any help and support you can provide me in this difficult situation.
Yours sincerely,
Eiko Köhler
Dear Mr. Köhler,
I understand your concern and frustration regarding this false accusation of theft. It is important for you to know that you have the right to defend yourself against these accusations and prove your innocence. Here are some steps you can take to successfully defend yourself against this accusation:
1. Stay calm and cooperative: In such a situation, it is important to remain calm and cooperate with the store staff. Avoid any confrontation and try to stay level-headed.
2. Request evidence: Ask the store staff for concrete evidence of their accusations. Request video footage or any other evidence that is supposed to prove your alleged actions.
3. Seek legal assistance: It is advisable to seek the help of a criminal defense attorney to defend your rights. An experienced lawyer can help you prove your innocence and take legal action.
4. Document your purchases: Keep all receipts and proof of your purchases at the supermarket to show that you have paid for all items properly.
5. Find witnesses: If there are witnesses who can confirm that you paid for the items and did not commit theft, reach out to these individuals and ask for their statement.
6. Consider filing a counterclaim: If you believe that the accusations against you are baseless and may have been made for personal reasons, you may also consider filing a counterclaim for false accusation.
In terms of legal options to prove your innocence and protect your reputation, a lawyer can assist you best. They can examine the legal steps that are most appropriate in your case to prove your innocence and potentially seek damages if you have been wronged.
I hope this information is helpful to you and wish you success in defending your innocence. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions or need legal assistance.
Sincerely,
Uwe Riedmüller, Attorney
