Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Thank you for asking before (I hope) you make a foolish choice like stealing. While the consequences for a theft charge include fines, probation, attorney fees, bail bond fees and the like, and possibly jail time, the worst consequence is what I call the Economic Death Penalty. Every potential employer who sees a theft conviction doesn't hire the applicant. Ever. You have 45 or more years or more in your working life and unless you are independently wealthy or able to make money "off the books" 45 years of poverty and sickness is a long time.

"Expungement" exists but is of limited usefulness; once your conviction enters one of the zillions of private databases it will never go away entirely.

Also, you don't have to be convicted. Fight like hell to not be convicted. Borrow the money if you have to and hire a lawyer. Do this in time for the lawyer to be there with you on your first court date.

I agree that the conviction is the thing you need to fight. You're an adult and what's on your record, is there FOR LIFE. Expungement doesn't take it off. It still remains on your record. So you seek an attorney in or near your area for someone with credentials. In our area, we are the most trusted law firm, and have been for just short of 20 years, each and every year. We are trusted because I am a FORMER Deputy District Attorney and the only Certified Criminal Law Specialist in my area. Look for someone like that in or near your area. I wish you well..................... David Wallin