Shoplifting Background Check?

Question

Hello,
About 6 months ago I made a really bad mistake by Stealing food with my roomates, no money can sometimes cause people to step out of themselfs and make very bad choices, this occasion would have to be my worst mistake to date. We tried stealing food and got caught basically, I got a fine of around 245 dollars or so, it was also a misdemeanor, I didn't get any other fines or probation or anything. After we stole, the company said we would each have to pay them a heafty amount, but after court, I never heard from the company and we never received anything about paying them. Anyways, my question is, do you think this has gone on my permanant record? I moved out of the state (Arizona) to California to try and get my life going, I am currently 20. Does this sound like it would be on my record? I am worried about job oppertunities, but I know it was my fault and will have to reap the consiquences

Thank you in advance

Answer 1

If charges were filed and you were convicted, then the case is public record and might be picked up by a routine background check. You should double check with your attorney because this conviction might actually be an infraction rather than a misdemeanor. You might have initially been charged with a misdemeanor but were convicted of or plead guilty to an infraction. California also allows you to petition to have the conviction expunged, so ask your attorney about that option as well.