Shoplifting at Kohl's in California
My question involves criminal law for the state of: California
I was caught for shoplifting at Kohl’s, they took my information, said i should be getting a letter in the mail, what is the letter about?
They called the police i was arrested and taken in i spent an hour in Jail they gave me a citation for a misdemeanor, and called it petty theft. I have to appear in court in August. I have a perfectly clean record and this is my first time in trouble with the law, a huge mistake on my part and I am not a minor.
My questions are:
What will the letter be from Kohl’s?
When I go to court do I plead guilty, not guilty, or no consent?
Do I need to hire an attorney?
What can I tell the Judge to try to make this as smooth as possible?
What could my charges be if it’s a misdemeanor?
How long will it be on my record?
I know I will have to pay fines, but do you have any idea of how much approximately?
Any advice, help, or information would be greatly appreciated. I am so scared about what is going to happen.
Re: Shoplifting at Kohl's in California
You'll have to wait and see whose return address is on the civil demand.
I suggest talking to a criminal defense lawyer before your hearing to find out if there are alternative sentences available that might allow you to avoid a conviction, and form your strategy based upon that information.
A misdemeanor charge is... a misdemeanor (low level criminal) charge. You should expect that you will keep your criminal record for the rest of your life. California's expungement policy is liberal, but in terms of what appears on your record the effects of having your record sealed are modest.
Re: Shoplifting at Kohl's in California
The letter from Kohl's will be a Civil Demand. Pay it immediately. This is separate from the Criminal Charges.
Fines vary state to state.
Civil Demand: Can be from X amount minimum to Y amount maximum. $250 in my case.
Court costs and fines: $303.
Lawyer, who got my charge reduced: $1500