QUESTION
What can I do if I was charged with petty theft?
Asked on Apr 09th, 2013 on Criminal Law - Michigan
More details to this question:
I was charged with petty theft. It's my first offense. I'm 22 and I was interrogated by the security guard at the store. I felt like I could not leave. I asked questions and was told to shut up by an officer. Then I was handcuffed, searched, had my wallet taken (but given back after it all) and then the officer told my friend we were under arrest. My friend is 17.
8 ANSWERS
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Retain an attorney to fight the charges and review the arrest for potential 4th Amendment violations.
Answered on Apr 14th, 2013 at 8:09 PM
Michael J. Breczinski
Well if this is your first time, then maybe you can get a deal where you end up with no criminal record. These records are forever. This is huge. What employer wants to hire a thief?
Answered on Apr 11th, 2013 at 12:17 PM
Criminal Defense Attorney serving Alhambra, CA
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Francis John Cowhig
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Depending on the amount allegedly stolen and the jurisdiction where the event occurred, shoplifting or petty theft can be met with a mere citation (infraction), or charged as a misdemeanor or even a felony, with possible jail sentences of 6 months to 3 years. It will be up to the D.A. to determine how the crime will be charged. Get an attorney to represent you.
Answered on Apr 11th, 2013 at 12:31 AM
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 that you will regret for life.
Answered on Apr 10th, 2013 at 3:57 PM
If you are charged with petty theft, you need an attorney. Depending on the facts of the incident, your attorney may get it reduced to trespass or even dropped.
Answered on Apr 10th, 2013 at 3:57 PM
Thomas Edward Gates
You never stated that you wrongly charged, so will assume you did do the theft. You will likely be sentenced to attend a consumer awareness class, pay a fine, do community service, have no contact with the store, have no further criminal violations, and be on probation for one year. You will also have to pay a civil fine to the store.
Answered on Apr 10th, 2013 at 2:42 PM
James Edward Smith
Ask for diversion
Answered on Apr 10th, 2013 at 11:40 AM
Appellate Attorney serving Grosse Pointe Farms, MI
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Musilli Brennan Associates, PLLC
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It would appear that you are going to be charged, and therefore you should engage an attorney and see what you can do to minimize your damages.
Answered on Apr 10th, 2013 at 11:40 AM