Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft NEED HELP!

Status
Not open for further replies.
B

badday103

New Member
I got caught shoplifting for a product that was under $50. I live in texas and this is a first time offense. the officer gave me a citation. On the citation it doesn't say anything about going to court or anything like that... do I just pay the fine and that's it?
How important is it to get a class c off my record? isn't that the same weight as a speeding ticket..
I don't have money for a lawyer so that's not really an option. (If i had money for a lawyer I wouldn't be here in the first place b/c I wouldn't have stolen)

Basically what I need to know is, do you alway have to go to court for stuff like this or are there times that you just have to pay a fine? and also how important is diversion since it's only class c. after 7 years doesn't it go off my record for the public?
 
There may be an option (to save court time) to pay fine and be done with it. (I am unsure on this) However that will likely result in conviction on your record. Your not affording an Attorney does not prevent you from getting legal Defense. Many Attorneys offer free consultations. Take them up on it. Take your citation and talk to these Attorneys about case and Diversion. The when you appear in court ask for Public Defender. You can take what you learned from consults and discuss your defense plans with Public Defender
 
Ok but you didn't answer my question. How important is it to get a class c taken off my record. does it go off the record to the public after 7 years? how much will a class c effect my career etc.
 
A record is a "record" it doesnt fall off or disappear. Some background checks only go back so far 7 to 10 years. However the record is always there. This why Diversion programs are so important
 
If there is usually a Deversion program your attorney can give you the info.
It is usually only for 1st time offendors.
 
I understand that. I'm wondering what it is? What do I have to do..? I plan on contacting someone but seeing as it's sunday I figured they'd be closed which is why i'm trying to figure out as much as possible.
 
Most Diversion programs work similar. They are just like a conviction with fines, community service, probation etc. However once you successfully complete program your case is dismissed! This means on job applications etc when asked about convictions you can say no!
 
Status
Not open for further replies.

Share this page

Get a free case review from a lawyer
Back
Top