I was caught on video by Macy's for retail theft about 2 weeks ago. It took place in a suburbs of Illinois. The total merchandise value for the items was estimated to $35 and the LP people at Macy's called the police. Since I had no previous criminal record, the police didnt arrest me but gave me a ticket citation instead and said it was a "village ordinance". My court date is in another week. I have been getting mails from attorneys asking me if I need a lawyer to defend my case. At the time of the incident i was 20 and i just turned 21 today. I had a few questions: 1. Should i plead guilty or not guilty even if they do have video of me concealing the items. 2. What are the consequences if i plead guilty and pay the fine? 3. Will this go on my permanent record, or is it possible for me to get this violation expunged? How long does it take and what do i have to do?
anything and everything helpful regarding this will be of greatly apprecaited. I'm really scared I dont know what to do and I've never been in this situation and I really don't have the money to afford a lawyer so please if anyone with a CJ background can help me out i'd really appreciate it!
Thanks![]()

