Legal Question in Criminal Law in Florida

To answer your questions: yes, this could you hold you back, and yes it is sometimes possible to have this removed from your record. A petit theft charge, while only a misdemeanor, is the type of charge that many employers will refuse to hire you if you have this. If you have not been to court yet, or you do not have an attorney yet, I suggest you get one right away. I practice in Tampa if you wish to contact me.

Craig Epifanio

Hello,

I imagine that since this is your first offense on a relatively minor charge, you will not be facing harsh consequences. Some things to keep in mind - if you enter a Pre-trial diversion program your charges will be dropped after completion of the program - so make sure you do what you're supposed to do. If the charges are eventually dropped, you would then be able to expunge your record.

If you don't enter some sort of program, make sure if you plea you negotiate to have "adjudication withheld." Then you would be able to seal your record. If you are adjudicated guilty (convicted) then the charge will remain on your record permanently.

Good luck,

Karen Kilpatrick, Esq.

www.ExpungeRecordFlorida.com

If you have never been arrested or charged with a crime before, you should be eligible for pre-trial diversion which is a program that requires you to complete some community service and take some classes. However, if you complete this program the State will nolle pros (drop) the case against you so you will not have a conviction or withhold of adjudication on your record. You should consult with an attorney in your area to ensure you are offered this opportunity.