So basically, I have theft problem. I live in Calgary, Alberta I got caught stealing once, for which the charges were dropped. Then I got caught stealing again, and I know the charges won't be dropped. Frankly I need to learn my lesson, and maybe this is the only way of doing it. I just want to know what will happen to me. Is it community service? A fine? Will I be able to travel to the states? I know I'm not a bad person. I have made many good contributions to the world, too, but for some reason I steal. What should I do? Do I need an attorney, or is there no point in getting one?

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Originally Posted by 2ndstrike

So basically, I have theft problem. I live in Calgary, Alberta I got caught stealing once, for which the charges were dropped. Then I got caught stealing again, and I know the charges won't be dropped. Frankly I need to learn my lesson, and maybe this is the only way of doing it. I just want to know what will happen to me. Is it community service? a fine? will i be able to travel to the states? I know I'm not a bad person. I have made many good contributions to the world, too, but for some reason I steal. What should I do? do I need an attorney, or is there no point in getting one?

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Some of this depends on your age and the dollar amount -

I'm 18 and the items I stole came To like 60 dollars. I also failed to mention that the employees told me they wouldn't call the cops if my mom came and picked me up. Unfortunately my mother was not at home or answering her cell so they called the police. Isn't that a little unfair to dangle my future in front of my face like that? Obviously the situation wasn't of great importance to them if they would have let me go...

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Originally Posted by 2ndstrike

im 18 and the items I stole came To like 60 dollars. I also failed to mention that the employees told me they wouldn't call the cops if my mom came and picked me up. Unfortunately my mother was not at home or answering her cell so they called the police. Isn't that a little unfair to dangle my future in front of my face like that? Obviously the situation wasnt of great importance to them if they would have let me go...

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They probably just wanted to make a lasting impression - they were unable to reach your mother (to make that impression) so now they are going this way.

I'm sure you don't want to hear this, but it's also a "little unfair" for you to steal - twice.

And I guess the situation was important or they would have let you go -

At 18 the laws are tougher than had you been younger - have you thought about retaining an Attorney?

I know, I know. I can't believe I did it (again) either. I have, indeed, thought about getting an attorney but I'm beginning to wonder if there's much of a point. I don't know if they could help me that much, after all this is the second time. I figured I would just go in front of a judge and be extremely apologetic, beg to not have a criminal record (I was accepted to a school in the states), and do a bunch of community service.

2nd offence, I am not so sure about not having a criminal record, that might be tricky. I think you might need a lawyer to advise you. You don't want to chance this on your own, at least try to get more legal advice.