Legal Question in Criminal Law in Missouri

What will happen to me

Recently i was issued a ticket in regards to clothing i shoplifted in eureka missouri i did not make the court appearance in sept, missouri sent me a letter stating a new appearance for october. i was told that if i did not return to missouri an arrest warrant would not affect me, is this true? I had another friend that told me even though it is a misdimeanor they can take my driving license away in illinois for not showing up. I need help this is my first criminal offense in my life i did this out of desperation I stole a couple of outfits for my kids to start school in, needless to say i got caught. I have no money other than what it takes to pay bills and I have no family other than my 2 girls.My biggest reason for not showing up to court is that the appearance is at 7 30 pm and i live up by chicago Ill. I go to school and so do my children we live over 3 hours away. What would happen to my children if they decided to arrest me while at court? I am scarred of losing custody of my kids. I wish I could afford a lawyer!


Asked on 9/25/06, 2:40 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Anthony Smith LawSmith

Re: What will happen to me

If you cannot afford a lawyer, you might try calling the Prosecutor to see if you can work out a deal. (This is better done with legal representation) The prosecutor may be willing to work with you. Trying to resolve the matter is almost always better than avoiding it.

You are correct, if you fail to appear a second time, you will probably be found guilty in your absence or have a bench warrant issued against you for failure to appear. This will probably not result in your illinois license being suspended, as it is not a traffic violation.

You mentiond that you are in school. This conviction (or perhaps even the bench warrant) may prevent you from getting some jobs when you get out of school.

If at all possible, obtain legal counsel to appear for you. They may be able to resolve the case without you ever having to appear in Missouri.

Good Luck

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Answered on 9/27/06, 4:47 pm


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