Results 1 to 2 of 2
  1. #1

    Default Diversion Programs for Shoplifting in Mesa, Arizona

    My question is for the state of: Arizona

    I was riding the stupid train the day I decided to "lift" $32 worth of stuff from Wal-Mart. Well I got caught. Got my Criminal complaint from the officer and went to my arraignment. (I've never been to court before so I didn't know what to say or do.) The judge asked for my plea, I told him I didn't know so he entered a not-guilty plea. Now I have a pre-trial conference, no clue what that is, but I cannot afford a lawyer. I'm in college and afraid of how this will affect my future career. Please advise if the City of Mesa offers diversion programs/community service for first (and last) time shoplifters.

    Thank you for you time.

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Feb 2011
    Location
    Arizona
    Posts
    387

    Default Re: Does the City of Mesa, Az Offer Diversion Programs for Shoplifting

    You might want to contact the local legal aid society and ask them. The criminal division of the office of the clerk of the court might also be able to provide some information. A Pre Trial Conference is where the attorneys will discuss pre trial motions, discovery of evidence and other matters. There is also an off chance that you may have an opportunity to enter a plea. You will want to look up the local rule of court to determine specifically what might happen or be required during the Pre Trial Conference.

    Generally speaking, if a person pleads to a misdemeanor charge such as shoplifting, the court will hand down a more lenient sentence-just for example, perhaps a fine and community service (or completion of a diversion program if that is available). If you go to trial and lose there, you can expect a harsher sentence.

    As for what effect it may have on your future, that depends upon what you intend to do for a career. I have seen cases where a misdemeanor conviction has disqualified the person from enlisting in the armed forces. When you answer "yes" on job applications or on apartment rental applications, people are going to look at you more closely. Nowadays, a conviction of any type really follows you around.

    1. Sponsored Links
       

Similar Threads

  1. Retail Fraud / Shoplifting: Caught Shoplifting - Diversion Programs
    By Jay1 in forum Criminal Charges
    Replies: 2
    Last Post: 07-28-2009, 06:44 PM
  2. Retail Fraud / Shoplifting: Shoplifting Diversion Programs in Nebraska
    By skmag in forum Criminal Charges
    Replies: 1
    Last Post: 08-06-2008, 08:37 AM
  3. Retail Fraud / Shoplifting: Pretrial Diversion Programs For 1st Time Offender In Felony Shoplifting, Chicago
    By New2Scrab in forum Criminal Charges
    Replies: 6
    Last Post: 05-26-2008, 07:56 PM
  4. Retail Fraud / Shoplifting: Shoplifting diversion programs
    By californiagirl in forum Criminal Charges
    Replies: 2
    Last Post: 09-02-2006, 09:58 AM
  5. Retail Fraud / Shoplifting: Shoplifting and Diversion Programs
    By bethey2024 in forum Criminal Charges
    Replies: 2
    Last Post: 04-05-2005, 04:25 PM
 
 
Sponsored Links

Legal Help, Information and Resources