QUESTION
What's the likely punishment for Shoplifting and possession?
Asked on May 15th, 2013 on Criminal Law - Colorado
More details to this question:
I was caught shoplifting and the total was about $180. The charge is retail theft. In the process they took my bag and found a small amount of pot in it and are charging me with marijuana-small amount personal use. I have no previous record. I really don't want this on my record and am hoping for Accelerated Rehabilitative disposition.
3 ANSWERS
Michael J. Breczinski
You want to get a lawyer and see if something can be worked out so you end up with no criminal record. The theft conviction will really screw up your life. No record is huge. What employer wants to hire a thief.
Answered on May 20th, 2013 at 8:36 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 May 16th, 2013 at 1:34 PM
2 Awards
In Colorado, the theft charge would most likely be a misdemeanor offense. You may qualify for a diversionary program without any jail time. This does not mean that the offense would be automatically removed from your record once you successfully complete a diversion program. More than likely, you would have to file a petition to seal the record. Retaining a local criminal defense attorney would be worth your time and money. It would allow you to get the best possible resolution and ensure that if you can seal or expunge the record, if eligible.
Answered on May 16th, 2013 at 1:33 PM