QUESTION
What am I looking at a first offense for shoplifting and how can I remove this from my record?
Asked on Dec 23rd, 2013 on Criminal Law - Utah
More details to this question:
So I shoplifted an $18 bracelet from a store, and they say I have a misdemeanor A which is a fine and or a jail time of 11 months and 30 days I believe. I am scared of what will happen. I have never been to jail in my life or committed anything bad. I am so scared and feel terrible for doing this. Will I be going to jail? Also how can I remove this from my record?
5 ANSWERS
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If convicted, the maximum penalty is one year in jail and a $5,000.00 fine. For a first offense, you probably won't get jail time, but if convicted, you will have a criminal record and be required to disclose it on all job applications not too many employers want to hire someone who steals! If you are a student, applying for college grants and scholarships, a criminal conviction will disqualify you. Some colleges will not even consider your application with a criminal record. My advice: hire an attorney who may be able to work a deal so that this does not become a permanent part of your record.
Answered on Dec 26th, 2013 at 11:33 PM
Michael J. Breczinski
Get a lawyer. Plead NOT guilty. See if a deal can be worked out so that you end up with no conviction. The jail and fine are not the worst punishment for this crime. Having a conviction for theft is. This would be a permanent record. What employer wants to hire a thief?
Answered on Dec 26th, 2013 at 8:55 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 Dec 26th, 2013 at 8:54 AM
James Edward Smith
Ask for diversion
Answered on Dec 24th, 2013 at 3:07 PM
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Usually, a first conviction for shoplifting can avoid jail time, but that depends on the judge. To avoid having it on your record, contact me to see about a "plea in abeyance." After a probationary period has ended, you can have your record restored so that it does not appear on a background check.
Answered on Dec 24th, 2013 at 3:04 PM