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Can (unintentional) shoplifting charges (Theft Less Than $1000) be dropped, and not add to criminal record?
Anonymous2 views4 answers
I was served a summons, a week after security cameras supposedly recorded me stealing $110 worth of groceries, which was completely unintentional, if it happened. I have never been involved in, or accused in any crime, more serious than speeding. I am a pediatric nurse, so any criminal charge on my record would cause me to loose my job/career. What are the chances of this being dropped, and never appearing on my permanent record? Can a Public Defender be effective in getting this dropped, or do I have to hire a Private Attorney, (which I cannot afford, and I would rather my husband not find out about this)?
If you cannot afford an attorney after you complete a form (nj 5 A). The jugué will determine if u are eligible.
Public defended are as good attorneys as private ones.
Tell him your
Story and don't talk to
Anyone else regarding this mater
Scott R. ScherrCar / Auto Accident LawyerLutherville, MD ·
This is a charge to be taken very seriously given the fact that you can lost your nursing license. You need a lawyer. It is impossible to say whether the charge will be dropped without knowing all of the facts, reading the Statement of Charges, seeing the video, etc. You need a lawyer.
If you cannot afford a private attorney, contact the Public Defender as soon as possible and no later than 10 business days before the court date. A private attorney has a better chance of getting charges dropped before the court date, but you should not assume that will happen.
You should stop posting facts and at least schedule a free consultation with a criminal defense attorney.
Theft requires a knowing intent to steal, so if it were possible to prove that you "unintentionally" walked out of the store with $110 worth of merchandise, then that would be a defense. Don't count on it, however, as I have heard plenty of stories in my many years defending these types of charges. A PD can defend this case for you, and many are very good, but if you are a full time nurse I cannot imagine you qualifying for their services. Chances are, you will not get a record for this offense even if found guilty or you plead to something; however, there may be other options. Yes, you need a lawyer. Get at least a free consultation. As far as keeping your husband in the dark, you had better stop your mail at the post office or get your address changed at the criminal clerks office, because you are about to start receiving dozens if letters from attorney's offering to represent you.
Anything is possible, but no one can guarantee the outcome. Seek a confidential consultation with an experienced criminal defense attorney. If you cannot afford to retain counsel, then apply to the Office of the Public Defender for an appointed one. There are good and bad apples in every barrel. The difference between public and private counsel is that you do not get to pick whom the Public Defender appoints.
