Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

The consequences of stealing include having a criminal record, which will prevent you from working again; fines, and community service at a minimum. You may have a defense to the the charge. Hope you didn't confess or sign anything. Consult an attorney in your locality.

Expect? Criminal prosecution.

�What can you do�? Hire an attorney, unless you know how to effectively represent yourself in court against a professional prosecutor intending to convict. No amount of free 'tips and hints' from here or anywhere else are going to effectively help you in your defense. A little free advice: exercise the 5th Amendment right to SHUT UP and do NOT talk to anyone except an attorney about the case. That includes on this or any other web site or public forum. It also includes any communication or dealings with the company agents. Most police and prosecutors will happily tell you that 95% of people convict themselves by trying to be 'helpful and cooperative', either during initial contact, questioning, interview or interrogation.

If serious about hiring counsel to help in this, and if this is in SoCal courts, feel free to contact me. Your attorney MAY be able to negotiate an actual �civil compromise agreement� with the store that will avoid you being prosecuted.

You're looking at a theft charge that can have devastating effects on your employability in the future. Your goal is to avoid a conviction if at all possible. For the best possible outcome, you are absolutely going to need a lawyer - either one you hire or if you financially qualify, then the court will appoint the public defender to represent you.

You're focusing in jail and other consequences... in my opinion, you should focus on seeing whether you have any legal or factual defenses first, then shoot for the best outcome from there. Like I said, the best way is with a good attorney that routinely practices in the court where your case will be heard.