QUESTION
Is it possible to keep a clean record after shoplifting?
Asked on Nov 11th, 2013 on Criminal Law - Michigan
More details to this question:
I am 19 years old from Kansas. I was charged with shoplifting the other day worth $65 from JCPenny. I was read my rights and the police and department stores both have my picture and a picture of the items. This is my first time doing anything bad, I have a clean record. I am embarrassed and this will never happen again, I am very future oriented and do not want my life to be ruined because of my dumb judgment. I plan on getting a lawyer before my court date in two weeks. How likely is it the case will get dismissed and not show up on my record?
8 ANSWERS
John J. Carney
In New York the prosecutor will offer an ACD dismissal for a first offense small dollar amount in most big cities. Small towns can be a problem as they want to charge you a fine and surcharge.
Answered on Dec 09th, 2013 at 5:47 PM
Adoptions Attorney serving Lansing, MI
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Austin Legal Services, PLC
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Retaining a lawyer is the right thing. You want to retain an experienced criminal defense attorney that handles retail fraud and shoplifting cases. In Michigan, most jurisdictions offer diversion programs for first offenders. If you are between the ages of 17 and 21 when the offense was committed, you would qualify for a deferred sentencing option known as HYTA. Both are ways of keeping the matter off your public record. You will want to discuss this and other matters in more detail with your attorney.
Answered on Nov 13th, 2013 at 1:40 PM
Appellate Attorney serving Grosse Pointe Farms, MI
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Musilli Brennan Associates, PLLC
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Hire the local lawyer and seek some, any, means of keeping this off of your record. That is you best course of action. If you are indeed future orientated recognize that any record or any criminal activity is disaster to your future. Act accordingly.
Answered on Nov 13th, 2013 at 1:39 PM
As a first timer, it is more likely it will be set off, or deferred for six months. If you stay out of trouble and pay your court costs and fines, and restitution if any is due, then it can be dismissed. It will still show as an arrest record until such time as it is expunged.
Answered on Nov 13th, 2013 at 1:38 PM
Thomas Edward Gates
It is highly unlikely you will get the case dismissed. See if they offer a diversion program. Once completed, the charge will be removed. Until then, any background check will show it on your record.
Answered on Nov 13th, 2013 at 1:38 PM
Petty theft is a crime of moral turpitude, and if convicted you can kiss your career aspirations goodbye. Hire a lawyer before you get duped into a plea you will regret for life.
Answered on Nov 13th, 2013 at 1:37 PM
James Edward Smith
Ask for diversion.
Answered on Nov 13th, 2013 at 7:11 AM
Michael J. Breczinski
Well the lawyer may be able to work out something so that you end up with no criminal conviction on your record. You well have to do whatever the court wants you to do.
Answered on Nov 13th, 2013 at 6:30 AM