Legal Question in Criminal Law in Florida

Hello! I just turned 19 and had the audacity to shoplift. I live in Florida, and the item that was stolen was $89.00. It is a misdemeanor, and I have been given a notice to appear. It was my first offense, but I have no idea what to do. I was planning on going to medical school and joining the army but I fear that with this charge that will not be possible. I am extremely sorry that I did it, and I still cannot believe my stupidity. I don't want my young impulsive choice to ruin my future dream. I am a full time student, and cannot afford a lawyer; therefore my question is what should I do?


Asked on 6/01/12, 7:43 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Craig Epifanio Craig Epifanio, P.A.

If you have no prior record, then the best thing to do would be to apply for Pretrial intervention, aka PTI, or in some places it is caled Misdemeanor Intervention Program, aka MIP. It is like probation and once you complete all the terms of the agreement (usually some court costs and/or community service), then the charges against you will be dismissed. You should then be able to get the charge sealed or expunged upon successful completion. It is not necessary to have a lawyer for this, but it can't hurt to talk to a public defender since you can't afford an attorney. Good luck.

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Answered on 6/01/12, 7:48 am


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