Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft shoplifting

[Karval]

Jurisdiction

New Mexico

I got caught shoplifting $75 dollars worth of merchandise from Walmart this is my 1st offense ever and I got a criminal citation I am also over 21 years of age and I am just scared about going to jail and having this mark on my record what should I do?

 

[adjusterjack]

I am just scared about going to jail and having this mark on my record what should I do?

Gee, that didn't seem to bother you before you stole.

I'm always amused by criminals who whine about potential punishment after they get caught rather than thinking about the consequences before they become criminals.

Anyway, jail is unlikely. It's possibly just a misdemeanor with a nice big fine but even a misdemeanor can royally screw up your life so if you want even the remotest possibility of this going away I suggest you spend a few thousand on a very good lawyer who knows how to make a misdemeanor go away.

 

[Betty3]

You need to talk to a lawyer. If you can't afford one, when you go to court plead not guilty & ask if a public defender (a PD is a lawyer) can be appointed for you. Talk only to the lawyer/PD - ask him/her about ACD or diversion to help protect your record.

 

[shrinkmaster]

I am a Retail Theft consultant and answer questions like yours daily. Unless you have priors jail is very very unlikely you should however discuss defense and/or plea options with an Attorney and when you do ask about ACD or Diversion as possible plea option