QUESTION
What should I do to fix my petty theft charge?
Asked on Jan 21st, 2014 on Criminal Law - California
More details to this question:
I was arrested, fingerprinted and given a petty theft ticket 484 misdemeanor valued $149.00. I have a court date next month. It was the first time. Could the misdemeanor be reduced to an infraction? Will all these go into my record? Should I have a lawyer? How much would the lawyer fee be?
4 ANSWERS
Petty theft is a crime of moral turpitude, and if convicted you can kiss your career aspirations goodbye. Hire a lawyer before you get duped into a plea you will regret for life.
Answered on Jan 23rd, 2014 at 10:47 PM
Retain an attorney to negotiate your case with the DA.
Answered on Jan 23rd, 2014 at 5:19 PM
Criminal Law Attorney serving Fremont, CA
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Steven J. Alpers, A Professional Corporation
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You need a lawyer, private or public defender. Some of those options depend on which county you live in and sometimes vary from court to court within a county.
Answered on Jan 23rd, 2014 at 5:19 PM
Personal Injury Attorney serving San Diego, CA
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Ozols Law Firm | Accident & Injury Attorneys
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It is going to depend on the county you are in. In San Diego any top criminal attorney will be able to get your case dismissed, not just an infraction but a dismissal. In Orange County there is a reduction program and in Murrietta as well. I don't know where your case is though. An infraction or a a dismissal wouldn't go on your criminal record but a misdemeanor would. You should hire a lawyer and for a case like this the fee should range from $1000 to $3000 depending on the quality of your representation.
Answered on Jan 23rd, 2014 at 5:19 PM