Shoplifting in Florida

**firsttime25** · 06-20-2012, 12:55 PM

My question involves criminal law for the state of: florida
i was caught shoplifting yesterday at tjmaxx for items less than $300 and i signed a form stating i was guilty. They also called the police and filed a report but i wasnt arrested literally but did fingerprints etc.
I was told by the police officer that i have to show up at court on a given date. I immediately contacted a lawyer and he said he will represent me in court. I would like to know what are the consequences and if this will go on my record. Its my first time being arrested and they charged it as a misdeamenor. Im very scared because i have 2 young kids .

**flyingron** · 06-20-2012, 01:12 PM

If you are convicted, it will be on your record. If TJ Maxx is a member of the NRTD, you will find it difficult to get further jobs in retail.
See if the lawyer thinks you are eligible for diversion or something else that will avoid a conviction. Don't screw up further.

**jefftgorman** · 06-21-2012, 07:39 AM

In Florida, a conviction for a misdemeanor would show on your criminal history. However, in certain misdemeanor cases, you may be eligible for what is known as a "sealing and expungement," which would remove the charge from your record. To be eligible, you must (among other things) not have obtained a sealing/expungement before. This should be something that your attorney could assist you with after the charge has been taken care of.

A sealing/expungement only applies to cases where the disposition was "not guilty" or "withhold of adjudication." If you plea or are found "guilty," unfortunately an expungement is not avaiable. It would be a wise idea to discuss these options with the attorney before making a plea in your case.

**firsttime25** · 06-21-2012, 10:55 AM

i signed a paper from the store stating i was guilty because i was scared at the time. I've never done anything like this before and do not have anything on my record. Right now i would like to get the least amt of punishment reduced because I have 2 kids and I don't have anyone to look after them. maybe the lawyer can say that i signed the paper under duress. this is a messed up situation. i am a medical student so retail is out of the question i just hope that it doesn't affect working at a hospital in the future.