I am 16 years old and recently got arrested for petty theft. what consequences might I be facing in court?

Question

I have never done anything like this before, my record is clean. I don't think petty theft is considered a felony but even so, would this occurence show on my record when I apply for a job?I also already have my license, and I was wondering what the chances are that it would be taken from me or suspended.

Answer 1

I recently passed the bar but I am not a lawyer, basically if it was under $2000 you probably wont be tried as an adult, unless you have an extensive record or have been on your own for more than six months, You could still possibly get comunity service or even time in a juvenile home a few mmonths a max but you can also have your criminal record erased when you turn 18 but youll need a lawyer to help, however you must stay out of trouble. It will really help you to explain how sorry you are and offer to repay your debt to society in order to keep you out of JV

Answer 2

Since it's your first offense, at most you will get a slap on the wrist or maybe even probation. I'm sure there will be some type of monetary fine as well. Be sure to plead no contest in court. That's like saying you neither confirm or deny the charges against you.

As far as your record, the length it stays on there is determined by your State's provisions on under legal age petty theft.

Keep in mind the judge may want to make an impression on you in the hopes that it won't happen again. You seem like an average child, which is easier to detour.

Good luck.

It is not wise to steal for more important reasons than the law.

Answer 3

A misdemeanor is a less serious offense for which the offender may be sentenced to probation, county detention (in a juvenile facility or jail), a fine, or some combination of the three. Misdemeanors generally include crimes such as assault and battery, petty theft, and public drunkenness. A fraction is the least serious offense and generally is punishable by a fine.
Jessica

Answer 4

1st time....fine, probation, community service, pay restitution....license..depending on the state...some suspend it until you're 18...or the end of probation..which ever is longest.
Better straighten up..just because you get busted..your parents are the ones who end up paying...if you don't....in California the parents have to pay the fine, any public defender fees, and incarceration which can be as much as $150 a day depending on the county.
And if you stole from a store the store can ask for civil payment...even if they got the merchandise back....this would be the restitution part.

Answer 5

It mostly depends on what state you are in. Because it's your first time it won't be that bad. You'll get probation or something.
This is what I'm thinking
* Small fine
* 1 to 3 years informal probation
* Community service
* Misdemeanor charge

Answer 6

Won't effect your license unless your parents take it away.

If it's really your first offense you'll probably get community service and probabtion.

You'll have a record until you're 18. You'll need to talk with an attorney about expunging your record when you turn 18.

Answer 7

NYS
6 months probation and 16 hours community service for any theft under 1,000.00

Answer 8

When you were doing the PETTY THEFT ACT...why didn't you ask your self all these questions? You obviously don't care what you did, your more afraid of the punishment. I hope you learned your lesson.

Answer 9

What ever happens in court, your parents should take your license from you until you're 21 and then whip your butt, soundly.

Then, maybe you wouldn't feel so high and mighty.. Walking, taking busses for 5 years would teach you a good lesson..

Answer 10

1st time? for petty theft? Slap on the wrist, home supervision, and community service and maybe a small fine. (usually).