First Offense Theft

[benson09]

My question involves criminal law for the state of: Iowa

I am currently residing in a suburb of Des Moines, Iowa. I was caught tonight shoplifting $80 or so worth of merchandise from Dillards. I was cooperative and did everything they told me to. I felt stupid and ashamed the whole time because I've never done something like this, and I still don't know why I did it. They said that since it was under $100 it wasn't a huge deal but they still called the cops.

The cop showed up and read me my rights and asked for general information. I was then handcuffed and brought to the car. Once at the station they just had be finger printed and mug shot taken and asked a few questions. They were super nice and I was out super fast. They said I have to appear in court in about a week. I was never told if this was a misdemeanor or a major criminal charge since everyone made it seem like it wasn't a huge deal and I was let go.

I have never been convicted of any kind of felony or stolen anything ever before. I don't really know what's going to happen. I don't want this on my record cause I'm looking for new jobs! I don't know if there is something I can do to get the charges dropped or this not put on my record? I also don't want to pay a ton for a lawyer. What should I do?

[PandorasBox]

Usually it is a misdemeanor.

Court costs, fines. Possibly anti-shoplifting class, community service.

The store/it's lawyers will also send you a Civil Demand notice. Pay this.

You should talk to a lawyer about a First Time Offenders program. Having a criminal record is not a good thing in this economy, makes it hard to find work.

[benson09]

So should I get a lawyer now or wait till my first court date when they ask if I have a lawyer or can afford one. I can't really afford one so don't they assign me one if I want it? Because I have no idea what I'm getting myself in to or if there is any way to get this expunged. I guess I just don't know what to expect. I will do the community service, the class, and pay the store back if there is any way to get it expunged. I'm in my last year of college and need a job. I made a huge mistake and I will obviously pay

[PandorasBox]

Get the lawyer asap. Seriously, call around today.

$80 was not your first time shoplifting. It was your first time being caught.

You also need to talk to your college counselor. You may lose your financial aid or schoarlship.

What to expect - it is going to screw up your job options for many years. You have kissed retail work goodbye. You won't be working around cash or financial stuff. You won't be working around seniors. You might be lucky to say "Would you like fries with that".