Legal Question in Criminal Law in Minnesota

Hi, I am a 19 year old College student form Minnesota, and I was stupid and ended up trying to shoplift a $6 piece of cheese from a grocery store. The police officer told me I wouldn't have to go to court unless I don't pay the fine on time. However when I went online to pay it, it said I have a mandatory court hearing. I re-read my citation and he wrote me down for Theft/Shoplifting and I believe its being processed as a misdemeanor. I think it should be a petty misdemeanor, but I'm not sure. I have court on tuesday and no lawyer. I just don't know what to say or how to get this bumped down to a petty misdemeanor (since it was $10 I thought it would classify)??


Asked on 1/13/13, 11:58 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Maury Beaulier612.240.8005 Minnesota Lawyers

A theft offense can be very serious. While any theft under $500 is a misdemeanor. Such an offense is still punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a $1000 fine. The collateral consequences of a conviction can also be extremely significant and preclude a person from finding employment where background checks are performed.

Often, if you have no prior offenses, a conviction can be avoided with a Stay of Prosecution. A Stay of Prosecution means that the offense is never recorded on your record and stayed for a certain periofd of time to ensure that you do not have another offense.

We can assist you in making sure that your record is not affected.

For a FREE consultation call 612.240.8005.

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Answered on 1/13/13, 8:31 pm


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