Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft caught shoplifting?

[Thelaw123]

I got shoplifting. I took 2 makeup items that add up to under $50. As I walked out I was approached by LP. I was escorted back to an office . I was searched , a report was written and then police came to arrest me. They took me to their location they have in the mall and I was given my court date , on the ticket , the M for Misdemeanor was circled . My understanding is that if it was less than $50 , it should be an infraction . At court , what are my chances of it going down to an infraction instead of a misdemeanor ? This was my first time by the way .

 

[Michael Wechsler]

Your chances are best to retain an attorney to deal with the shoplifting charge for petty theft. If you received a summons to go to court, there will be a section on the summons for which you are charged. I'm not sure what you think an "infraction" is and that it's like a fine where you aren't charged with a criminal act, such as a motor vehicle violation. That is probably not the case here, sorry to inform you. The law has different ways of treating first time offenders, including those charged with petty theft / shoplifting. It is possible that you'll be able to receive deferred adjudication. This is probably what you are hoping for and, as a first offender and for a small amount, it can be possible. You are best served hiring a criminal attorney to help you. Others here may wish to contribute.

 

[shrinkmaster]

I am a Retail theft consultant and answer question like yours daily. In some states a theft can be reduced to an infraction but its not called theft! If your charged with theft its a misdemeanor. Talk to u Attorney about ACD or Diversion (see links provided in previous post) You will also get a letter of Civil Demand from the store law firm (never mention store names on public posts) pay this as there can be serious consequences for not paying. See here about the retail theft database. Your name may have gone into a Retail Theft database as well making retail work difficult. You can email me for more info on databases