Legal Question in Criminal Law in Illinois

I got caught taking a necklace and a ring from kohls, I'm 19 and I got a city ordinance ticket-looking paper. I have court in october and I need some help without having to pay huge lawyer fees. The total amount for the retail was $32 and it was stupid and never happening again. What do I do? Should I please guilty or not guilty? Will it be on my record? (I want to be a teacher and that won't happen with a criminal record) Please help :( Am I a criminal now?


Asked on 9/03/10, 8:47 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Purav Bhatt The Law Office of Purav Bhatt

Regardless of the amount taken, a retail theft is a retail theft and can affect your job prospects in the future so you need to proceed with care.

I do recommend you hire an attorney. Having an attorney on your side gives you the opportunity to negotiate a deal with the prosecution to protect your record or potentially get your case dismissed. You have options since this is your first offense but you must be knowledgeable or have someone with you who is.

Feel free to call me at 773-791-9682 if you'd like to discuss your matter in greater detail.

good luck,

Purav Bhatt

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Answered on 9/09/10, 7:20 am


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