A criminal lawyer is warning shopkeepers facing potential shoplifters - to exercise caution

Christchurch beauty salon owner Rupali Gulati made chase through the city's Palms Mall after a woman ran out without paying for her treatment.

It ended in a scuffle.

Gulati was shocked when Police told her she shouldn't have pursued the thief.

Local barrister, Josh Lucas, says in most cases, it's illegal.

He says shopkeepers shouldn't touch or try detain a shoplifter unless they're committing a serious offence, otherwise they might get in trouble with police.

Lucas says getting a good description of the person, car registration and calling police is best.