Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft Shoplifting first offense only 18

[Lexienicolew]

I'm a college student and was caught shop lifting with a friend. It is my first offense. I'm terrified. I do lots of community work, have tons of scholarships, and have always been a good kid. I made a mistake of following my friends advice and stealing from a store. The amount was 341 that we stole. It was from sears. They took the merchandise back undamaged. And we now have court dates. Should I plead guilty right away or no? Will something be sent to my house? What can I expect as punishment from the store and court? Will anything be sent home? Should I get a lawyer? I am so scared and feel disgusting. Also will this always be on my record and prevent me from having a good job? I am a premed student. So how will this hurt my chances of medical school?

 

[Betty3]

You'll want to get a lawyer. He/she can also answer any questions you might have.

 

[army judge]

I'm a college student and was caught shop lifting with a friend. It is my first offense. I'm terrified. I do lots of community work, have tons of scholarships, and have always been a good kid. I made a mistake of following my friends advice and stealing from a store. The amount was 341 that we stole. It was from sears. They took the merchandise back undamaged. And we now have court dates. Should I plead guilty right away or no? Will something be sent to my house? What can I expect as punishment from the store and court? Will anything be sent home? Should I get a lawyer? I am so scared and feel disgusting. Also will this always be on my record and prevent me from having a good job? I am a premed student. So how will this hurt my chances of medical school?

You are innocent until proven guilty.

Now is not the time to blab, feel remorseful, or confess.

You can do all of that and more in your place of worship, before mom or dad; but not in court.

You plead not guilty, hire a lawyer (if unable to afford a lawyer, ask the court to appoint one), stay out of additional trouble, consult with your lawyer and discuss ALL diversionary options and ways to legally get your record cleansed or sealed.

After you do all that, wait.

While you wait, seek information about "ethics" "theft prevention/avoidance" classes, and perhaps discuss the psychology of stealing with a school psychologist or counselor and ask if there are local classes about the subject. In case you are convicted, taking matters to premeditate your character looks good at sentencing.

 

[shrinkmaster]

First off remove store name from your post. During the course of consulting work I do I can tell you internet posts can and are used in court or by DA's you don't need to be confessing on public forums. Talk to your attorney about ACD or diversion as plea options. You can also enroll in anti shoplifting course like one offered by nonprofit group NASP. I directed a client to them they took course (online) came to court with completion letter and Judge dismissed their case on the spot! You can PM me via this site for contact info for NASP as their Director is a personal friend of mine