Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft I just recieved my first misdemeanor, what is going to happen?

[impulseshop]

I am 18 and i I received my first ticket for a misdemeanor last night for shoplifting. This is my first offense and I am really scared about what happens next..

What level of crime is it?
What is going to happen in court?
What should i say in court?
What are the consequences?
Will this effect my chances of getting job?

if someone could please talk me through this it would make me feel a lot better being prepared...

how do i get a lawyer?

 

[mightymoose]

It is hard to say anything without knowing the circumstances, especially the value of what what stolen and whether or not you entered the store intending to swipe something.
However, most likely you will get probation and pay some fines. An employer that does a background check may see the conviction, and it will be up to you to explain the circumstances and explain it away to minimize the damage.

 

[jacksgal]

What level of crime is it?
You already said is was misdemeanor
What is going to happen in court?
You will face charges. I suggest you talk to a Lawyer before court. Ask about Diversion
What should i say in court?
As little as possible let your Lawyer talk for you
What are the consequences?
That depends on state law and any plea deal your Lawyer might work out
Will this effect my chances of getting job?
If convicted yes

 

[jharris352]

Well, you have a big choice now. You can keep it up and face the consequences of crime or learn from this mistake and never do something so silly again. How much trouble are you in? Not much, THIS TIME. It will get worse from here if you don't pay attention.

What level of crime is it?

Misdemeanor is the lowest level of charge. In most jurisdictions it carries a maximum of 1 year in jail and $1000 fine. That is Maximum, not what you will get.

What is going to happen in court?

Your first hearing will be an arraignment. If you have money for a lawyer, hire one and take him/her. If not, the first thing they will ask you is if you want to apply for a court appointed attorney. Say yes and apply for one there. Arraignment is just where they determine if you have or want an attorney and then get you to plead guilty or not guilty. Plead NOT GUILTY no matter if you did it or not. You can always change your plea later when you have an attorney and a deal.

What should i say in court?


Nothing! You have the right to remain silent: USE IT. You should only answer the question, do you understand Yes or NO, Do you want an appointed attorney Yes or no, and How do you plead? NOT GUILTY. Do not say anything else. Don't talk to the police or prosecution.

What are the consequences?

I told you the maximums earlier. You will likely get a fine, restitution (paying back what you stole), community service (good punishment), and probation. You will have some sentence that you will have to serve if you fail to do the other things you are told and fail to report. You will likely have to drug test, so stop using drugs if you are now.

Your best bet is diversion, I'll explain in a minute.

Will this effect my chances of getting job?


No offense, but would you want someone working for you that is a known thief? I suppose not.

Fortunately for you the law has decided that we are all stupid once in our life so they have a diversion program. This basically is where they hold the charge in abeyance until you finish your restitution and probation. If you do all that they ask you to do the charge is dismissed. This won't come up on your record and affect your school or work.

That is a one time shot, if you do anything else it will not be available to you . Don't screw up. You have gotten your one chance, don't blow it.

One day, if you work things out you can tell some other kid who just blew it how you survived.

Good luck. Don't make it worse. Get an attorney don't talk to anyone till you do.