Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft Theft from Department Store

[rtfPleaseHelpMe]

Hi just yesterday I was caught stealing a little over 400 in merchandise from a store. I really need help because Police were involved and the store IS pressing charges. They said if it were under 300 it would just be a misdemeanor. Well I was taken into custody and put into the waiting room at the local Jail. My family was so embarrased, but they came to the scene to see me off. I was bailed out that night and arrived back home early this morning. The bond was a little over 2400 but we only had to pay one-tenth of that. So I am On Call for my court date so Im not completely sure how to handle this. My parents are trying to find someone to help us, but they are low on money because they JUST came back from burying my Aunt. I did this out of jealousy of others, I wanted nicer things for once, and I thought the only way was this way. I was so wrong, and this is my first offense. They charged me with Grand Theft (300 to 5000) Felony. I know that in Georgia you have a First Time Offenders Act that can possibly remove this (altogether?) from your record. But I live in Florida and I don't think we have the same program. I know Chapter 598 says something about A Youth Offenders Act, but my limited knowledge in this area only confuses me.

Is there any possible way to have this waived from my record, or at least bumped down to a misdemeanor?
I am 19yo, Just got my AA and I am transferring in Fall. I know this may be cliche, but I'm honestly a good kid, who just made the wrong mistake.

 

[thelawjournal]

Keeping this off your record will prove near impossible. Since this is a felony charge prison should be your biggest concern. Start calling Lawyers, many offer free consultations, get as many as you can! Ask them what your options might be. In mean time I suggest you enroll in an Anti Shoplifting course such as the NASP. I would urge you also to read the link I have posted here. This story from this site will show you how enrolling in said class can be viewed by a Judge favorablly. Read the last post by atnyc

http://www.thelaw.com/forums/showthread.php?t=48448

 

[rtfPleaseHelpMe]

So does this mean the felony will be on my record more than likely or a misdemeanor?

 

[thelawjournal]

If your convicted of a felony you will have a felony on your record. If misdemeanor then a misdemeanor will be on your record

 

[rtfPleaseHelpMe]

Is there any way to expunge any of this from my records? I know Florida has a Youth Offender Act as I saw in Chapter 598 that says something about doing community service if this was my first time? I didn't completely understand it though.

 

[thelawjournal]

Expunging a record happens "years" after a conviction. As stated earlier you need to start calling Lawyers

 

[rtfPleaseHelpMe]

My parents have called really good lawyers to help my case. Will my admitting to the crime at the scene affect me terribly in court? I can still plead not guilty in court, right?

 

[thelawjournal]

You should plead as your Attorney instructs you to plea