QUESTION
What’s going to happen? Will shoplifting be permanently on my record?
Asked on Jun 07th, 2017 on Criminal Law - California
More details to this question:
I was caught shoplifting (about $40) at a local store by the LP. They took my information and called my parent, then a few weeks later, sent a civil demand letter. We paid it completely within a month, and the LP told my mother that as long as it's paid, this case will not go any further and It will not be on my record. However, today I received a court summons set for less than two weeks from now.
1 ANSWER
Don't confuse the civil case between you and the store with the criminal case in court between you and the state. Signing the papers was foolish enough, and paying the civil demand will make you look even more guilty. Petty theft is a crime of moral turpitude, and if convicted it will really hurt your school/employment aspirations. You should talk to a lawyer, who may be able to work out a deal with the Judge whereby you can earn yourself a dismissal.
Answered on Sep 01st, 2017 at 8:24 PM