What punishment am I looking at if I was caught stealing?

Shoplifting items of a value of less than $950.00 is petty theft. Petty theft can be charged as an infraction if the amount stolen is worth $50.00 or less. If over $50.00 but less than $950.00 it is charged as a misdemeanor. However If you have three or more priors for petty theft, the next one can be a felony or a misdemeanor. Infractions are punished by a fine. Misdemeanors are punished by up to one year in the county jail and/or up to a $1,000.00 fine. Felonies are punished by sixteen months, two years, or three years in state prison. The normal punishment for first time petty theft is three years summary probation, a fine, community service, theft classes, and restitution to the victim. Second or third convictions for petty theft normally are the same as for a first conviction. However, it is not unlikely to receive up to 90 days in county jail for the additional convictions. This all depends on the facts of the case.

You will not go to jail. However, 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 will also have to pay a civil fine to the store.

Maximum penalty in Missouri for misdemeanor stealing is 6 months in jail and $500 fine if your case is in municipal court.

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. I suggest that you hire an experienced criminal defense attorney to represent you and get you the best deal possible.

Did you steal from a person or from a store? That will make a big difference. If it is shoplifting, the chances of going to jail are probably slim. Probably at worst you face probation. Many jurisdictions offer diversion programs and other sentencing options for first time offenders that would keep the matter off your public record. Consult with an experienced criminal attorney in your area to discuss your options and likely outcomes.

Unlikely you will go to jail, very likely a conviction will have a major impact on your future if this is not handled in the best possible manner. Engage an attorney NOW!!