QUESTION
What happens for a fist time retail theft?
Asked on Aug 15th, 2013 on Criminal Law - Louisiana
More details to this question:
I took merchandise from a store. The total was around $13. Currently I am waiting on immigration status. I wanted to know what would happen to me and what is the punishment?
7 ANSWERS
Petty theft is a crime of moral turpitude, and if convicted you can kiss your career aspirations goodbye.
Answered on Aug 16th, 2013 at 6:51 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 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.
Answered on Aug 16th, 2013 at 12:32 AM
John J. Carney
Retain a good criminal lawyer to get an ACD dismissal or you will get a criminal record and not have a good chance to become a citizen. Why would you want to risk so much for $13? It shows very poor decision making and that will not go away overnight. Make better decisions in the future.
Answered on Aug 15th, 2013 at 8:29 PM
James Edward Smith
Try to get diversion so it does not affect your immigration status.
Answered on Aug 15th, 2013 at 11:22 AM
Speeding & Traffic Ticket Attorney serving Sherman Oaks, CA
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Law Offices of Phil Hache
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Assuming you have no other prior thefts, then allegedly stealing $13 worth of merchandise can be dealt with. Since you are not a U.S. Citizen, it is even more important that you do not have a theft conviction on your record. It is possible for an attorney to get the theft charge dismissed without having to go to trial.
Answered on Aug 15th, 2013 at 11:19 AM
Most of the time a misdemeanor conviction results in very little or no jail time. Probation is a likely result. However, if you have a significant criminal record the judge could sentence you to jail. Hire an attorney.
Answered on Aug 15th, 2013 at 10:49 AM
At best you are looking at a fine and maybe you can get DA diversion. That is what you should try to get.
Answered on Aug 15th, 2013 at 10:11 AM