DoI need a lawyer ifI got arrested for retail theft?
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DoI need a lawyer ifI got arrested for retail theft?
About a month ago I was arrested for retail theft. The amount was $198 but the police officers put the amount of less than $150 on the report. They told me to show up on my court date and Iwould probably get some kind of community service class or probationn. But I have been receiving letters from many lawyers. So I am wondering if I need a criminal defense lawyer? In Cook County, IL.
Asked on September 20, 2010 under Criminal Law, Illinois
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 14 years ago | Contributor
Retail theft - or as is most commonly known as shoplifting - is serious business. It can come with it stiff penalties. The police officers did you a favor and reduced the amount. $150 is the "magic number" as it seems in Illinois and the charge is reduced to a Class A misdemeanor rather than over $150 which could be a Class 4 felony! That will change in 2011 but you have to worry about it now. Yes, I would seek some legal help. Find someone that comes referred by another person as knowing how to handle these things. A conviction of this type can not be expunged or erased from your record so it would stay with you your whole life. Good luck.
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