Legal Question in Criminal Law in Washington

I shoplifted a $6 tube of mascara when I was 16 years old and ended up paying a civil demand to the store in the state of Washington. LP took me to the back room but no cops came, and my parents picked me up. I know it is a gross misdemeanor, but did paying the civil demand mean that the charge went onto my juvenile record? I did not have to appear in court at all. I am now 18 and am worried this will affect my chances of being employed later on. And if it is on my juvenile record, should I take the time to seal the juvenile record myself or do you think it would be okay to leave it be? Thanks!


Asked on 12/26/13, 11:37 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Stan Glisson Glisson & Morris

Short answer, no it is not on your record. If you didn't see a judge or a probation department, you do not have a criminal record. Many stores handle shoplift cases like this one, without involving the court system or the police. You pointed out it is a "civil" demand, as opposed to a criminal case.

If you want further assurance, you can pay for a background check on yourself and see if anything comes up. That will cost $10 or more, depending on who you use.

Also, you will not have to disclose this incident on employment applications because it was not an arrest or a conviction.

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Answered on 12/27/13, 11:21 am


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