Legal Question in Criminal Law in Illinois

A while back I was caught shoplifting at a Sears department store and got caught. The store only fined me about $300 and it has been paid off. Now, I had only taken a $20 shirt and the fine seemed to be about all the action taken. I did not receive a court order or anything of that sort. I was 15 at the time and it was a first time offense. I have a great school record; around a 3.8 average with challenging courses. Has this gone on my record? Is there anyway to take it off my record like with community service or anything? I am going to be a junior in high school and have come to realize that this mistake wil weigh heavily on my conscience and I just want to reddem myself. I have already committed my self to various different community service events. I am just really worried on the effects it can have on my future, especially my college application.


Asked on 8/20/09, 4:19 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Kelly Bennett Bennett Law Offices

If you were not arrested, there should be no arrest record. Moreover, you were a minor at the time the offense occurred, as such even if a record does exist, juvenile records in Illinois are sealed and inaccessible to the public.

This should have no effect on your future, but learn from your mistake and don't do it again.

Read more
Answered on 8/25/09, 5:10 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Criminal Law questions and answers in Illinois