QUESTION
What can I do on a theft charge to not go to jail and have it on my record?
Asked on Nov 14th, 2013 on Criminal Law - Michigan
More details to this question:
Found a wallet in parking lot of a store. Money order of $530 blank was in it, I took it. “Bad mistake”. 30 days later and the police are by my door. I got questioned admitted I took it. I have no priors and got a charge of theft I believe ars 1802.a1. Will I go to jail I’m 32 never committed a crime. Only reason I took it was because I didn't have rent. Can I do something to get diversion probation? Whatever I have to do to not go jail or have it on my record.
5 ANSWERS
Michael J. Breczinski
There is a possibility that you may end up with probation. Get a lawyer and see what can be done.
Answered on Nov 20th, 2013 at 9:12 AM
Bankruptcy Attorney serving Federal Way, WA
at
Freeborn Law Offices P.S.
Update Your Profile
Based upon the amount you stole, it could be filed as a felony. Your best bet to work this out is through an attorney. If you can't afford an attorney you probably qualify for a public defender. Ask for one. Don't try and do this on your own.
Answered on Nov 18th, 2013 at 12:42 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 18th, 2013 at 12:41 PM
Speeding & Traffic Ticket Attorney serving Sherman Oaks, CA
Partner at
Law Offices of Phil Hache
4 Awards
It is possible to work out a disposition on this charge that will not include jail time. Where court is your criminal case in? As far as getting the case completely dismissed without going to trial, that depends on a lot of factors. How did they trace it back to you? Was there video footage that caught your license plate and you getting into your car and driving away? Don't answer any specific questions on a public site like this. I would recommend that you speak to a criminal defense attorney in your area to discuss your case in more detail.
Answered on Nov 18th, 2013 at 12:41 PM
Adoptions Attorney serving Lansing, MI
at
Austin Legal Services, PLC
Update Your Profile
You may qualify for diversion, depending on the jurisdiction. Realistically the worst you face is probation. You may get the judge to agree to a delayed sentence which could reduce or dismiss the charge. Consult with an experienced Michigan criminal defense attorney.
Answered on Nov 18th, 2013 at 12:41 PM