Legal Question in Juvenile Dependency in Ohio

I got caught shoplifting for the first time at krogers. I'm 17 years old and I've never been in trouble before. The lp stopped me, took me into their office, took down my information and my ss number. My dad came in and signed a paper since I'm underage (Ohio). They said since It was my first time and I was cooperative I wasn't being charged, but then again I heard they always say that but charge people anyways. I signed a paper saying I couldn't go to krogers for a year. My father paid for the merchandise ($20) and we left. Am I going to have to go to court, since my father paid for the merchandise? I need answers now. I'm so nervous I can't sleep. We can't afford to pay a 200 dollar fine or whatever, especially since my dad paid for the merchandise. Please answer ASAP.


Asked on 10/18/12, 2:30 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Joseph Jacobs Jacobs & Lowder

You can be charged no matter what they said, but I think you will not be charged. Even if you were it would be in juvenile court, resulting in no permanent record. If you were 18 this would be a criminal matter and you would have been put on some form of probation ... Just learn this extremely important lesson, be glad you were under 18 when you did this, and move on.... Remember the stress you are dealing with and use it as motivation the next time you are tempted to break the law. This should keep you in line from now on.

Read more
Answered on 10/18/12, 5:52 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Juvenile Dependency questions and answers in Ohio