Legal Question in Criminal Law in Minnesota

what to expect in court for theft citation?

I worked at Target for 5yrs ive been good employee. Recently i have been having financial problems stress from having a tight budget. I then so desperate for money i returned my own items at target, it went to the amount of 350.00. I got caught but i paid the money back i regreted everything i did it once then it kept piling up. i am stupid and i regret doing this decision im not a criminal i was caught it a mix of desperation. I never broke the law i have a clean record till now and my question is whats going to happen in court? Am i going to jail i cannot afford a lawyer or else i would and will this be on my records. i just wished i didnt go through with this. its clearly my mistake im just very scared..


Asked on 5/18/10, 10:45 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Maury Beaulier612.240.8005 Minnesota Lawyers

Thank you for the email.

A theft offense can be very serious. While any theft under $500 is a misdemeanor. Such an offense is still punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a $1000 fine. The collateral consequences of a conviction can also be extremely significant and preclude a person from finding employment where background checks are performed.

Often, if you have no prior offenses, a conviction can be avoided with a Stay of Prosecution. A Stay of Prosecution means that the offense is never recorded on your record and stayed for a certain periofd of time to ensure that you do not have another offense.

We can assist you in making sure that your record is not affected.

For a FREE consultation call 612.240.8005.

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Answered on 5/24/10, 9:30 am


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