Japan

Shoplifting is a criminal offense of theft of items from a store.

If you have been caught for shoplifting an item of any value from a store, there is a chance you will only be interrogated by shop staff or shop detectives and be released with a warning after you have compensated for the goods.

However, at times, the police will be called (especially if the shop staff feel they cannot communicate with you language-wise), and you may be arrested for theft – a criminal offense. If you are taken to the police station whether under arrest or not, they will interrogate you, take your fingerprints and photos leaving you feeling worried and sorry.

If you are not a fluent Japanese speaker, it is advisable to demand an interpreter of your native tongue especially before saying something out of line or signing any papers. You may also want to think about requesting the attorney on duty or retaining a private criminal defense lawyer.

ATOM Legal Professional Corporation is a law firm in Japan specializing in criminal defense with offices nationwide.

Japan has an international right to try foreigners arrested and convicted for an offense in Japan, within its territory. This means that if you are arrested for a criminal offense in Japan, neither your embassy nor the government of your country of origin will be able to force Japan to send you back to your home country. You will be detained, prosecuted, put on trial and convicted just like any other Japanese citizen under Japanese law unless you are entitled to immunity.

This probably means that you will also need to seek advice from an attorney qualified in Japan and experienced in criminal defense law in Japan.

Choosing a criminal defense lawyer without prior research is a tough process. But you would surely be looking for the best, most qualified attorney available.

ATOM Legal Professional Corporation is a criminal defense law firm in Japan dealing purely with criminal defense cases.

If you have been arrested in Japan and need an attorney to defend you, then we would advise you to visit one of our law offices located in Tokyo, Yokohama, Nagoya, Osaka and Fukuoka.

All of our law offices are located conveniently within minutes of major train stations in each of the above places.

ATOM Legal Professional Corporation is the first law firm in Japan to deal ONLY with criminal cases. All of our attorneys specializes in criminal defense and can quickly meet your legal needs.

We can dispatch lawyers to police stations where you or your family member is being detained and will assist you in your speedy release from custody.

We offer a free one hour consultation for those people whose family members have been arrested and are being detained.