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Restitution is not going to be ordered unless there were damages to merchandise or property. Civil Demand covers retailers expeneses some.
. Fines less than $500.00
. Civil Demand proably $300.00
. Attorney fees $1500.00 approx
Grand total $2300.00 est. (probably less)
I've spoken briefly to a couple lawyers today over the phone and have a slight better idea of what this may entail- however, if i plead no contest, won't that stay on my record as such?
One attorney I spoke with today's whole premise was to play in in a way in which this won't be on my record or will later be expunged- this would certainly be the route I want to go if possible. You were right, the attorney costs 2500 and I need to figure out a way to get that b/c I have no other choice. Do you see keeping this off my record a possibility?
thanks so much for everything
Ask your Attorney about Diversion
Like Panther said, this will not go on your record if you get diversion. However, even if you don't, you can still get this off you record in one of two ways: 1) either you will get it expunged, or 2) it will go off your record by itself. After you complete probation (assuming you don't get diversion) you can hire an attorney for an expungement hearing. This is where the court reomoves this from you record. It's fairly easy to get a first time misdemeanor expunged. Or, many states seal criminal records after about 5-7 years. So it would still exist on you record but would be unreportable to employers. Ask your attorney about such laws in your state.
I used to work for a major retailer in Eaton County,Lansing . I always liked the Sheriffs Department and thought they were a bit leniant with the shoplifters.
Eaton County offers a "Diversion Program". It is for 1st time offenders. If you fully cooperated you will probably qualify for the program. If you succesfully complete the program and pay all of the fines, this will fall off of your record.
P.S. you don't need an attorney. Half the people on this site are attorneys. Thats how they get business. Just show up and ask the prosecutor about the Diversion Program.
Civil Demand in Michigan, 10 times the amount of what was stolen up to $200.00.
Retail Fraud three = up to a $500.00 dollar fine + 93 days jail