Michigan Retail Fraud, 3rd Degree

[MeganNicoleF]

My question involves criminal law for the state of: Michigan

I'm 21 and a college student. Around a month or two ago I was caught trying to steal a few pieces of clothing from Meijer that totaled $94. The police were called, I was handcuffed, finger printed and let out on $300 bail. I have my court appointment tomorrow, and I would just like an idea of what is going to happen, what I'll be sentenced to?

My record is clean, but last August I was caught stealing food that totaled $24. The police were not called and no action was taken, but I wasn't sure if it would affect me.

Is jail time likely? I'm currently taking summer classes right now, so I'm worried I'll be sentenced to jail time.

[Disagreeable]

Why are you wasting your money on college? With a record of theft, no one will want you. You should have hired a lawyer to represent you. This is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 93 days in jail and up to a $500 fine. As you were not convicted in court on the prior, it will not count against you now.

[PandorasBox]

Jail time not likely.

Criminal charges - likely. Lots of fees and fines - likely.

Summer classes....in Michigan you cannot expunge charges for 5 years. So I would see if your degree is useful.....