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  1. #1
    Join Date
    Oct 2009
    Posts
    7

    Default Shoplifting Court Date

    My question involves court procedures for the state of: Michigan

    I was recently caught shoplifting at a local department store- about $100 worth of merchandise. I was caught, but not arrested although they did say they were going to prosecute. They told me that I would receive a letter from the department store with a fine of double the merchandise ($200) and a letter to show up in court. This is my first offence (I’m 24), and it was stupid and pitiful. They were actually very kind, and I was very honest with them. They told me that since this is my first offence, I will probably show up to court and they will just give me a warning. Is this true? I know it depends on the judge, but they (the store managers) seemed to think that I would get off with just a warning and that happens quite frequently with first offenders. And if so, would it show up on my record? Is there a possibility that I will have to pay another fine, or get community service? Also- will I just get a letter in the mail, or will I have to sign for it or something? As you can tell, I’ve never broken the law and I have no idea how this works.

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Sep 2005
    Location
    Behind a Desk
    Posts
    98,846

    Default Re: Shoplifting Court Date

    You're charged with a crime. If you show up in court for your arraignment you can expect to be formally informed of the charge against you and given the opportunity to enter a plea (guilty, not guilty or "I stand mute", with that last plea being treated by the court as a not guilty plea). The judge cannot dismiss the charge because he feels sorry for you.

    Even assuming there's a first offenders program for your county, at your age you may not qualify for it. Not every county even has a first offenders program.

    Consult a local lawyer, or request a court-appointed lawyer to advise you.

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