It is no secret that a criminal record can have a significant impact on your future in California. It can affect your job prospects, eligibility for benefits or housing and even come into play in child custody cases. The nature of the conviction determines how great an impact this may have on your life, but it is never something to be taken lightly. As such, a good defense is vital if you are facing criminal charges.
Theft and property crimes are particularly common throughout the United States. In some cases this is simply because people are struggling to get by with the little they have. In other cases, young people may be pressured or misled by friends into doing something reckless like shoplifting. Unfortunately, even taking something of very low value can get you into serious trouble.
If you are caught and convicted, you could face fines or even a prison sentence depending on the amount that was stolen. Even without conviction it is possible that you could be banned from the store and from any others in the chain. Furthermore, the mark on your record could affect your employment options in the future.
If you are faced with any kind of theft charge, the right defense could be critical. Our page on property crimes may have some of the information you need. An attorney might also be invaluable if you find yourself in this position. He or she can evaluate the circumstances of your arrest and the details surrounding the alleged offense. You may then be able to work toward escaping conviction or at least negotiating a lighter penalty.