What happens when you are caught shoplifting?
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What happens when you are caught shoplifting?
Yesterday I got caught stealing at a Target and since I obviously didn’t think I’d get caught I took a lot of stupid things that amounted to $180. They called the police and they asked me about it and took me to the station but because I talked to the cop on the way I think he might have felt bad for me or something because he never took me in the station. He wrote me a ticket with a court date which is in October but I want to know what to expect. Will I get a fine? What else? Do I ask for a public defender? I’m not a resident so what happens?
Asked on July 16, 2010 under Criminal Law, California
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
Technically shoplifting is called "Petty Theft" under the law. Generally it is charged as a misdemeanor if it is a first offense, and the value of the property stolen is valued between $50 and $400. Petty theft can be punishable by a fine of up to $400 or by imprisonment in County jail for up to 6 months, or both. If you can not afford to have an attorney represent you then go and see if you qualify for legal aid. You did not mention how old you are. Are you a teenager? Or a juvenile offender as they are termed under the law? Then you may be charged with only an infraction and not receive a criminal record. You definitely need legal help here. Good luck.
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