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My question involves criminal law for the state of: Wisconsin
I'm 15 years old with no other crimnal record. i stole from a mall a hat worth $35.00. i still have no idea why i did it but my court date is october 5th and i'm very scared of what might happen. my dad is taking everything serious and telling me this is on my permant record and that i wont be able to vote or anything. i'm just looking for answers of what will happen to me.. any answer is very much apperciated!
Your parents need to get you a Criminal Defense Lawyer.
You will be in juvenile court. Ask the lawyer and court for a first time offender program. There will be fines and fees.
Your parents will also receive a Civil Demand letter from the store or its lawyers. This will cost them a few hundred dollars. This is separate from the criminal charge.
You will be able to vote. You will however find it difficult to find your first job. It won't be in retail, so plan on making fries at McD's.
Your dad is right to take this serious. Shoplifting is expensive. If your family has to get a lawyer for you, that can be $1500. A public defender can be $250+. Fines and court costs will be atleast $300. Civil Demand atleast $200.
Depending on if your family gets a lawyer or PD....yes, it can mean no college scholarship.
Job applications ask about misdemeanor charges....so it can mean no job, no apartment.....seriously, the only place you will be working with a theft charge will be fast food.
At $35, it's not a felony. It's a misdemeanor ($10,000 fine and/or 9 months in jail) if you are an adult. You and your father should seriously consider a lawyer. What you would want is to get into a diversion program which while it will cost you money, will usually entail you being on probation and taking some classes, will if you behave yourself not result in you having the conviction on your record. Of course, lawyers cost money as well. In addition the store can hit you up for the amount of the merchandise plus $500 to compensate them for the expense you've caused them. I'd start saving your pennies. Perhaps you can work out a way to repay your father if he advances you the money for this.