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  1. #1
    Join Date
    May 2010
    Posts
    2

    Default Cited for Shoplifting in California

    My question involves criminal law for the state of:california, san mateo county.
    I was recently cited for shoplifting $90 (retail value) of merchandise from a dept store. The actual value with sale prices wouldve been less. I didn't go into the store to steal but did make that mistake while I was there - I won't make excuses. Desperate, greedy...list goes on. The cops came and while they didn't cuff me, they did cite me for "petty theft" and gave me a court date. I am 32 yrs old, a mother, and married. My husband is disabled and my job is our only source of income. I had my only biological child at the age of 15 and instead of becoming a statistic, I immediately went on to college and have worked very hard to have the job that I am in. I've studied administration of justice, am/was on my way to becoming a certified paralegal, I am a notary puplic for the state and hold a real estate license. I have worked my entire adult life to achieve this and to set an example for my teenage son. I know that contradicts my actions and I welcome the criticism I know will come after this post. I deserve it. I've never had a blemish on my record, am a law abiding citizen and my health is rapidly deteriorating while worrying about what this will all cost me. If I am convicted of a misdemeanor, I will lose everything I've worked for, including my job. All of my studies for the past 10+ years will be in the toilet. I know what I did was wrong and I HAVE learned a huge lesson by just worrying about how to tell my children why we can't pay the rent. Please help. What can I do to reduce this to an infraction?? Is it possible? I'd be willing to do any amount of comm service and pay the fines I have coming to me. Thank you.

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Jan 2006
    Posts
    38,867

    Default Re: Is There Any Hope

    3 words:

    hire an attorney

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Mar 2009
    Location
    Michigan
    Posts
    6,808

    Default Re: Cited for Shoplifting in California

    I was 36 when I shoplifted for the first and last time.

    I applied for a Florida Real Estate Salesperson License. I got it. I had to go through extra hurdles. You have the advantage of already being licensed.

    My extra hurdles: I had to submit Certified Copy of Judgment for my crime. Explanation of what happened, why. And Letters of Recommendation from friends, and former employers. It went to the Florida Real Estate Commission to decide if I was at risk of re-offending.

    I'm not a lawyer, but I would expect to follow similar steps.

  4. #4
    Join Date
    May 2010
    Posts
    2

    Default Re: Cited for Shoplifting in California

    Hi all,
    So, I am due back in court tomorrow. I have gone twice now and the judge has delayed to allow me time to consult with an attorney. My request for court appointed counsel was denied because they said I make too much money...I do not understand how that is possible. I cannot afford to hire an attorney so I am going to show up tomorrow and plead not guilty and see where it takes me from there. Any other advice?? I tried to find an attorney who would just consult with me and give me advice at a reduced rate or for less than it would be to come to court with me and was unsuccessful. No one returns calls when I tell them I am trying to find the most inexpensive help available - I have a large family to support and it is already difficult. Any help at all, please?

  5. #5
    Join Date
    Jan 2006
    Posts
    38,867

    Default Re: Cited for Shoplifting in California

    Sometimes it doesn't seem fair that a person that appears to have little cannot obtain the services of an attorney yet it is difficult, at best, to hire one outright.

    Each state has their own criteria for determining eligibility and I am confident in saying each state has likely been challenged on their criteria. Even if you wanted to challenge it, it takes money and obviously that is the problem now.


    While the judge appears to be fair in allowing you the time to obtain an attorney, obviously the real world is not cooperating. If you cannot obtain the services of an attorney, all you can really do is speak with the courts and tell them that. Ask if they are aware of any lower cost legal aid providers. I would contact the DA and or the court clerk and ask about such services now, before your next court hearing. After that, nothing I can offer you. Maybe others will have some direction for you.

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