Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Re: outreach

Thses types of diversion programs are called different things in different jurisdictions, and vary in there operation, but essentially call for the person to attend some form of counseling, pay a fine or community service, and if successful the case is dismissed.

You should talk to an attorney familiar with your particular jurisdiction.

Petty theft, while it may seem minor, is a crime of moral turpitude and can impact the persons job opportunities, and can be a prior and be used to make a subsequent petty theft conviction a felony.

Thus great care should be taken when dealing with this type of offense.

DJM

Re: outreach

This is an issue that has to be negotiated with the DA, and will depend on the facts and his background. Don't hold your breath. If he doesn't get diversion, then after he completes all the terms of his probation, you can contact me to discuss getting his conviction expunged, as long as he doesn't have further arrests between now and then.