misdiminer

[justaguy26]

What is the name of your state?ca

I got caught for shoplift this is my first time I do something like this in my whole life, I don’t know why I even did it, and it was for an item less than $10. This is the stupid move I’ve ever done in my whole life and I balm my self for doing that. I even bought stuff worth $40. (But I got caught after I left the store).
The LP told me I’m not allowed to be in the store again for life. And they made me sign some paper work, and he told me that they’ll check my record and see if I’ve done it before. And then I’ll get a court date in the mail and I have to go if not then PD will come and arrest me?

I don’t know what to do?
Is this going to be on my record for ever?
Am I considering criminal now?
Can this be drop?
Should I go to court?

N.B: I'm not a US citizin yet nor have a greengard i'm here on a grant asylum, and did applied for the greencard an year ago. the question here will this affect my status??

Your prompt action and response will be highly appreciated.
California
26 yrs old

[snostar]

I may be sorry I asked, but what does "balm my self" mean?

[justaguy26]

Originally Posted by snostar

I may be sorry I asked, but what does "balm my self" mean?

sorry i meant "blame".
Also i was reading the paper that the LP office gave me "California Penal code (section 490.5(b&c))

[calatty]

Get a lawyer! Contact your local county Bar Association and ask for a referral to a criminal lawyer who is also familiar with immigration consequences. This should not affect your immigration status because shoplifting is not an "aggravated felony." A lawyer can also arrange for a disposition where you do not end up with a criminal record.

[justaguy26]

Originally Posted by calatty

Get a lawyer! Contact your local county Bar Association and ask for a referral to a criminal lawyer who is also familiar with immigration consequences. This should not affect your immigration status because shoplifting is not an "aggravated felony." A lawyer can also arrange for a disposition where you do not end up with a criminal record.

I would like to thank you for replying back, also i did sign up for a pre-paid legal services. A lawyer contacted me and he told me that it could go on my record, then he asked me if i got arrested? i said no because i didn't, then he told me when my membership fully be active i can call back and i can fax him the paper that the store gave me?

One question, Why do i have to go to court thu? like i said this is the first thing i did , i only have a seat belt ticket? and thats the only thing i got had to do with cops. i'm so scared that this shoplifting will affect my life?

[calatty]

It shouldn't go on your record if he handles the case right. I am concerned that he thinks it will. I would call the State Bar association and ask for a referral to an attorney specializing in criminal law.