Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft 18 yr old. had a juvenile record.

[badjudgement]

I had a juvenile record for retail theft (petty misdemeanor) and attempted retail theft (complicity) (as a misdemeanor). I went took classes, did community service, had prohbation, and paid fines. I believe it was expunged. I am eighteen now. I recenlty shoplifted ($7.99 item) from a military base on Guam. The security forces told me that I would only have to appear in court to see how much much the judge would fine me. Since I stole from a military base,I will pay a $200 fine for a civil recovery. I am unsure if I have to pay them more. I have been looking online and I have seen replies similiar to my case and there have been replies about going to jail and paying a $1,000 fine. Is that true? I was hoping that I would just go to court, ask to do a pre-trial diversion program and get my case dismissed. Is this possible? I did not request for a lawyer since I was told that I would only pay fines. do I need a lawyer? If I do get charged with the fines, will I be able to expunge my case? I do not want to go to jail. I do not want this to go on my record and I definitely do not want to go to jail. Please help me. Also, since my dad is my sponser, will he loose his job for something I did? Will they hinder him from being promoted?

 

[Michael Wechsler]

I'm sorry this is a late reply. Your case is very unusual. I highly advise you to take up any offer of having a lawyer. I would not take anyone's word that you will just get a fine unless the ink is dry on paper and signed. In addition, a lawyer can help you negotiate a better deal or even get the charges dismissed, especially if not warranted. Moreso, a lawyer might be able get you probation where completion of probation will get the case dismissed and no expungement necessary (for the conviction because there is none - you may want one for the arrest.)

Regarding what will happen - nobody knows. Nobody can predict what the repercussions will be regarding your father. You can only prepare yourself adequately by having a lawyer present to protect your best interests and negotiate the best deal you can (or get the charges dismissed.) Best of luck and hope everything works out for you.