Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft Shoplifted as a minor

[odie]

Im 16 now and about a month ago I was shopping at "XYZ Store" with two other people. This is my first time getting in trouble with the law. They caught us and my mom picked me up, took me home and we didnt speak much of it. I didnt cry or anything because i know what i did was wrong. I know we have to pay a fine for what we stole. We also got mail about it but I never got to read it. Tonight, my mom said we have to go to court soon. I didnt ask ask anything about it because im too scared to know the details. What should I expect in court? Will they show the video tapes? That would be so embarassing. Will this still be on my record when im 18? Will it effect my chance of becoming a teacher when im older? Will it be put in the newspaper or anything? I just need to know what to expect.

 

[shrinkmaster]

Your first court appearence is arraignment and unless you plead guilty or have a plea deal with DA nothing much will happen on this trip. It could appear in paper if they have a Police blotter section but thats about it. If your concerned about having a record then talk to an Attorney about options like ACD or Diversion. I would also advise you not to name stores in public posts

 

[mightymoose]

You are a juvenile. Your name will not be released in any reports of something so insignificant.
Whether or not it will effect future employment has a lot to do with how it is resolved in court.
With the little information you gave it seems you are very fortunate with the outcome so far.
It appears you could have easily been arrested and booked at juvenile hall on felony burglary and conspiracy charges.

 

[CdwJava]

Court might be a very minor manner if there are alternatives that you can plead to as previously suggested. Even if there is no diversion available, after you have turned 18 and you have completed all the terms of any probation, you can petition the court and ask that your record be sealed. After your juvenile record is sealed, you will not have to reveal it or admit to it on most employment applications or interviews. Some government positions relating to law enforcement or security clearances may require that you reveal this information, however.