QUESTION
What will shoplifting do to my record?
Asked on Aug 26th, 2013 on Criminal Law - California
More details to this question:
I was at tjmaxx when I took $50 in merchandise and when I left they asked me to follow them. So I did and I didn't resist. They made me sign some papers and called my mom. There weren't any police nor tickets so they let me leave. 25 days later I got a letter with a fine of $350. I'm 15 and I am scared that this dumb decision I made will affect my applications for jobs and colleges. I have not had any type of record before. This is my first offense. Will this affect my future?
4 ANSWERS
Michael J. Breczinski
Well most employers do not like to hire a thief. Since this is a juvenile matter maybe the record can be sealed ? Don't do it again.
Answered on Aug 28th, 2013 at 11:22 AM
Thomas Edward Gates
A Theft 3 will impact your future in getting a job, apartment or even a loan. If you will be criminally charged, you will get a notice to appear at your arraignment. In Washington, you have committed a gross misdemeanor with a sentencing range of 364 days in jail and $5,000 fine. As a first offense, you will likely be sentenced to attend a consumer awareness class, do community service, pay a fine, pay restitution, stay away from the store, have no further criminal violations and be on probation for one year. You can expunge your criminal record after you have successfully completed your sentence. If there is a diversion option, take it.
Answered on Aug 27th, 2013 at 11:02 AM
4 Awards
I normally ignore the civil penalty letters. You should look at the page on my website which addresses this.
Answered on Aug 27th, 2013 at 9:09 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 you will regret for life.
Answered on Aug 27th, 2013 at 3:59 AM