Although it is unlikely, shoplifting charges can be dismissed. A motion may be filed by your criminal defense lawyer to dismiss the case if the offense was dismissed. This means that the conduct was not sufficiently serious to warrant a trial or that it did not exceed the threshold necessary to support the charges. You can also request a dismissal if the security staff and store employees fail to appear at the hearing. If they do not show up, the judge will usually adjourn the case. If they're absent again, your case may be adjourned.