Shoplifting at Fred Meyers

Hello, I know that my case is similar to everybody elses, but it really confusing to read through everybody's story. I am glad that people post what has happened and what can happen to them. It is really informative in general, but I need to know specifics.

So I live in washington state and i don't know if anybody else on here is from here. I was caught shoplifting at Fred Meyers. I had done it before and they knew. I had taken a bottle of pills and energy bars the first times. They didnt catch me then. But this time, I went and got one hour photos and then walked out. I was then approached in the parking lot and was asked to go back into the Security room. I was sat in a chair and basically charged of 50 dollars worth of stuff.

I have just turned 18, so they charged me as an adult and called the police. The sheriff came and was extrememly enlightening. He read me my miranda rights and told me was being arrested. Although no hand cuffs or stuff like that. He wrote down my info and such and found out that I wasnt lying about anything. He issued me a citation with a court date. And Fred Meyes had me sign papers about a civil charge and a banning off the property.

However, I had been caught shoplifting before when I was a minor, about 6 months ago by Long's Drugs. That ended with "diversion" a class where I learned about the horribleness of shoplifting. Guess I didn;t make much of an inpact.... Anyway, I am wondering if that is going to make a huge difference in court.

Also, I am a straight A student, president of clubs, athletically apt, and currently have a job with a local cinema. Are they going to contact my employer? If so, what could that entail? And what do I write on applications?

I know it was the stupidest thing to do AGAIN. I am so mad at myself and everything I take for granted. I could have spent this weekend in jail. I hate how I almost threw my life away. I just broke up a 6 month relationship and my parents are just finishing up a divorce, but still, all this stress was not an excuse. There is no excuse.

Also I heard that lawyers are extremely expensive but I dont want to be taken advantage of in court. Although I know I am guilty. THis is confusing.

Any advice or anything would be appreciated.

Given the recency of your prior conviction, even though it was a juvenile offense, you should consult a criminal defense lawyer.

It is exceptionally unlikely that the police will contact your employer. What you will put down on job applications will depend upon (a) how this charge is resolved, and (b) what they ask on the job applications.