Pacheco, CA Criminal Defense Law Firms & Lawyers

I don't know what state you are in. I am writing from Washington, so I am going to answer with Washington law. Other states are very similar. Shoplift is classified as a "gross misdemeanor", which means it is punishable by a maximum of 1 year in jail and a $5,000.00 fine. That is the maximum penalty that the judge can impose upon you. He does not have to send you to jail (but he can) if you are convicted. If this is your first offense, the likelihood of you going to jail is very very minimal. If convicted, the judge will give you a suspended sentence, which means he will suspend all jail time and a portion of the fines, on condition that you do certain things that the court may order.. Like consumer awareness counseling, law abiding behavior, etc. If you violate any of the terms the judge will put you in jail. Probationary period is generally 2 years. Having said this, you do not want a conviction on your record because it can impact your future: If you are planning to go to college, it could jeopardize your admission. It will certainly impact your ability to receive financial aid, scholarships, and government educational loans (the latter you most definitely will not receive). It can also negatively impact employment opportunities because a theft conviction is a crime of moral turpitude, which means that you cannot be trusted. Think about the jobs that require you to deal with customers and $$ (fast food is a big one). My advice to you: GET an attorney. It may cost you some money, but it will be well worth it if he/she can keep the conviction off your record. It is possible and an attorney can help you try and accomplish this. Do not take this lightly. The amount of the theft is irrelevant.

Yes, they have to seal it when you turn 18 so you should just go to the clerk of the juvi court and ask to see it ONCE YOUR TURN 18 and make sure they seal it. If they give you any crap go to the public defender or private lawyer who represented you.

Not having your rights read to you may or may not be an issue. More information would be needed in order to determine that. That said, it seems like you know your rights if you're now questioning the fact that they weren't read.