I Was Caught Shoplifting - Now What

[iscrewedup]

My question involves criminal law for the state of: West Virginia

I was recently caught shoplifting...it was just a few dollars worth of petty items and was charged with first offense shoplifting. I do not have anything on my record and have never been in trouble before, i made a HUGE mistake, i am 19 years old. I am wondering if anyone knows if West VA has any type of diversion program or anything of that sort to keep this off of my record? If not i am asking what i would have to do to get it expunged off of my record? I am stressing out about what this could possibly do to my future career opportunities, in case i need some type of government security clearance? i made a huge mistake and am ready to pay for it but i would really love not to have to pay for it for the rest of my life?? any advise is more than welcome and appreciated!!! thank you so much

iscrewedup

[aaron]

To find out about diversion programs in your county, I suggest checking the court or prosecutor's websites, or asking a local criminal defense lawyer.