Charged with Retail Fraud of the Third Degree in Michigan

My question involves criminal law for the state of: Michigan.

I was recently charged with retail fraud 3. I am 18 years old and this occured at walmart with items adding up to 43$. I am curious as to how hard it will be to get a job with this type of record. I am also wondering what types of fines Im going to pay the court. Walmart said Im going to have to pay them around 50- $200. I am honestly ashamed of myself and my actions so please do not judge me. Thank you in advance.

It will certainly be hard to get a job in retail with such a record. What other employers do is really up to them, but my friend the judge said he'd rather have a drug user than a thief, the former can be rehabilitated easier.

Michigan has a first offender program that may allow you to avoid having a criminal record because of this. Unfortunately, each judge has his own opinions on this, so you'll need a good local attorney to help you.

Get a Criminal Defense Attorney, ask for a first time offenders program.

From my experience....it is hard to get a retail job with a record, even though I got a plea deal for Disorderly Conduct, the original charge still shows up on a $10 background check. And staffing agencies - don't waste your time applying.

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Quoting PandorasBox

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Get a Criminal Defense Attorney, ask for a first time offenders program.

From my experience....it is hard to get a retail job with a record, even though I got a plea deal for Disorderly Conduct, the original charge still shows up on a $10 background check. And staffing agencies - don't waste your time applying.

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How much could a defense attorney cost for a case like this?

It can easily run a few thousand. Call around and ask.

Is there any chance of getting into the program without a defense attorney?

Can you afford an attorney? If you can't afford one, then you can ask for a Public Defender (and you have to prove you are too poor for a private attorney).

Well my mother is unemployed and I work a minimum wage job under 30 hours a week, proving that Im poor isnt an issue if these fall under the category of poor.

At your arraignment, plead not guilty and ask for a public defender.

I would also consult with some local private attorneys - most offer a free consult.