If you have been arrested for shoplifting, you need to think about what this could do to your life. Although a shoplifting conviction may not seem like that big of deal, especially in comparison to murder to homicide, petty shoplifting is still considered a misdemeanor offense and can result in up to 90 days in prison and/or a fine of $1,000. Furthermore, you will most likely have a hard time moving on once you have served your punishment. You may have difficulties finding a decent job, letting an apartment and obtaining a loan; after all, employers, landlords, credit bureaus and professional associations are all able to access your criminal record and uncover your shoplifting offense. And, furthermore, they most likely will not be interested in the value of the item that was stolen, whether it was your first offense, or even if it was an accident. A permanent shoplifting conviction, no matter how minor, can and will ruin your chance of success in the future.
Wayzata Shoplifting Lawyer and Expungement
If you have been arrested for shoplifting, you may seem like the cheapest and easiest option is to accept a guilty plea, serve your sentence and then ask for expungement at a later date. However, the reality is, full expungement after a guilty plea for shoplifting is not possible. Instead, a better option is to ensure that your shoplifting arrest does not make it to your permanent record in the first place. This is where a Wayzata shoplifting lawyer comes in.
Facing a Shoplifting Conviction – Now what?
If you are facing a shoplifting conviction, do not try to take on the system alone. Even if you are guilty, it is best to keep your mouth shut and speak to a qualified Wayzata shoplifting attorney. Martin S. Azarian Criminal Defense, P.A. brings 22 years of experience to the courtroom as well as a 95% success rate for those in similar situations. That’s right – 95% of his misdemeanor shoplifting clients has had their theft charge dismissed. When your day in court comes, you will want these odds in your corner.
Many people who are facing a shoplifting conviction will attempt to fight the courts alone. You may be able to talk your way out of a sticky situation but your words will also most likely be used against you in a court of law. The judge does not care about your story- he cares about a guilty or a not guilty plea which is why you should always leave the talking to the experts – Martin S Azarian will do the dirty work for you. He will fight for you in court so you don’t have to.
Implications of a Shoplifting Conviction
Having any type of permanent theft conviction on your record will have a severe and lifelong negative impact on your future. The reason is because almost all companies, landlords, credit bureaus, professional associations and colleges will perform a criminal background check before making any decision about their applicants. What this means is your shoplifting conviction will follow you for the rest of your life, negatively impacting everything from your ability to find a decent job to your ability to obtain a loan. It may seem like a good idea now to just do the time and move on but this is not actually your best option – doing the time now can result in a lifetime of consequences.
You need to avoid a conviction now to protect your future.
Many people assume that a misdemeanor offense will not impact their future but this is not the case. Shoplifting convictions can destroy lives. This one small mistake can be made even worse if you try to face the courts alone or hire the wrong lawyer. Make the right decision and call Martin S. Azarian Criminal Defense, P.A.
Wayzata Theft Lawyers and Criminal Defense Attorneys
One of the best ways to ensure that you come out with the best outcome possible and not guilty verdict is to hire the best Wayzata shoplifting attorney. Martin S. Azarian Criminal Defense, P.A. is not only experienced in Minnesota shoplifting cases, but also provides aggressive representation and sound legal advice. Furthermore, he only works with the most professional and qualified attorneys in his office. Trust the Law Firm of Martin S. Azarian Criminal Defense, P.A. to get you out of a sticky shoplifting situation. Call the Wayzata criminal defense attorney who can make the difference at 952-451-4987 for your free initial telephone consultation.