Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft Shoplifting in Illinois

[rtfCopper]

My daughter (age 17) was caught stealing a $4.00 headband. She was charged as an adult. She was arrested and has a court date next week. She has never been in any trouble before and she can't believe she did something so stupid. I was planning for us to go to court and have her plead guilty becasuse she truly is sorry for what she did and wants to pay her fine and do community service or whatever else they give her. Now after reading some of these comments I am afraid that may not be wise? My understanding iof the expungment process is that is she is convicted it will be 5 years before she can apply for expungement? If she gets community service is that a conviction? Or just by pleading guilty is that considered grounds for a conviction? I am afraid her stupidity will follow her for ever. Thanks for your help.

 

[thelawjournal]

Your are correct to question that choice. It would likely result in a conviction and a criminal record. That criminla record could impact her ability to get scholarships and certain jobs. What she wants is Diversion (if availalbe) talk to some Attorneys (many offer free consultations) ask about this whether or not you hire them. If not have her plead not guilty and request Public Defender then have the Diversion discussion with Public Defender

 

[rtfCopper]

Thanks for your help. I just met with a Lawyer and he will talk to the DA on our behalf. Since this is her 1st offese and the amount is so small he thinks he can work it out so she will have the case dismissed after she fulfills some community service time and pays a fine. As long as there is no conviction she won't have a record hanging over her. Thank goodness! That was my biggest concern. We go to court on Monday - so glad I had second thoughts about pleading guilty. Thanks to your website!

 

[thelawjournal]

Your welcome. If you know of others in this of our help please pass on this site to them. We are still new and need as much promotion as we can get