Legal Question in Criminal Law in Florida

retail theft- first offense

I was arrested for a first offense of

retail theft of about $60. I was

charged with a misdemeanor. I'm 19

years olf, my friend over the phone

convinced me to steal her

perfume/makeup for Christmas. I

was stupid and did, never have I

done anything like this before, nor

have I gotten in trouble/arrested for

anything before. What am I to expect

when I attend my court date, and is

there any possibilty I could get this

removed from my record because it is

a first offense do I have any other

options, such as a diversion program?


Asked on 12/09/08, 8:13 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Kelly Papa Law Office of Kelly Papa

Re: retail theft- first offense

Often, with no record, you could go to PTI or Pre-trial intervention, in which you would be assigned to pay fees, go to a shoplifting prevention class and do some community service hours. In return, the State will not formally charge you.

Also, for a first offense, you can go to court & often get a with-hold of adjudication, probation & the same community service hours & class.

A with-hold means that you were not adjudicated guilty, and therefore, not convicted. Obviously, pre-trial intervention is better, but is not always available.

Good luck on your charges. I am located in Jacksonville if you need further assistance.

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Answered on 12/09/08, 8:46 pm


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