Misdemeanor Larceny Questions

[Jermkd]

North Carolina

I was recently given a citation for misdemeanor larceny and a court date. I have several questions about the court process, sentences, job impacts, and removability.

First, details:

I was 17 at the time and will be on the court date as well.

The item I took was worth $19.99 and is resale-able.

I was only given a citation, not hand-cuffed or carted off.

This is my first offense. I have an absolutely clean record.

I intend to plead guilty and accept the conviction.

Now questions:

1) Since I'm 17 will I be charged as a minor?

2) Since I'm 17 do I need a legal guardian to appear in court with me?
3) Must I hire a lawyer/attorney since I intend to plead guilty anyway?

4) What are the possible sentences?
5) Is there anything I can do to garner a lighter sentence?

6) Will this affect my job opportunities in the future?
7) Is there any way to get this expunged from my record in the future?

8) Can I contact the store pressing charges and attempt to get them to drop the charges?

Thanks.

 

[Ohiogal]

North Carolina

I was recently given a citation for misdemeanor larceny and a court date. I have several questions about the court process, sentences, job impacts, and removability.

First, details:

I was 17 at the time and will be on the court date as well.

The item I took was worth $19.99 and is resale-able.

I was only given a citation, not hand-cuffed or carted off.

This is my first offense. I have an absolutely clean record.

I intend to plead guilty and accept the conviction.

Now questions:

1) Since I'm 17 will I be charged as a minor

You will most likely be tried in juvenile court.

2) Since I'm 17 do I need a legal guardian to appear in court with me?

Most likely. Have you informed your parents?

3) Must I hire a lawyer/attorney since I intend to plead guilty anyway?

No one needs to hire an attorney.

4) What are the possible sentences?
5) Is there anything I can do to garner a lighter sentence?

Fines, community service, writing an essay. Most likely not detention. Oh and you will have a civil demand from the store most likely that will need paid.

6) Will this affect my job opportunities in the future?

It could.

7) Is there any way to get this expunged from my record in the future?

Possibly if you stay out of trouble.

8) Can I contact the store pressing charges and attempt to get them to drop the charges?

It is not up to the store to drop the charges. That is a decision for the prosecutor.