Asked 8/4/2016 – Buna, TX

I am eighteen (I just turned eighteen at the end of June.) I’ve never been a convicted thief nor have been to jail before.
I attempted to steal $160 worth of cosmetics from Sephora around four o’clock p.m.
Two employees, male and female, stopped my mother and I as we exited the sidewalk, heading to our vehicle not even twenty feet away, saying that it was important they needed to speak with us.
Being taken to the employee office, the female did complete bag search, the male filing information, police department was brought in, who began filing information as well. I was handcuffed and brought to a county correctional facility, placed in cell with five older women, then was later brought to the identification room around five o’clock p.m., where information was filed, pictures, and hand/fingerprints were taken. I learned I committed a Class B misdemeanor, and in matter of years, it could be erased from my record.
After parents bailed me out using a bails bond attorney for $1,000, which parents paid $300 of, I was told of having to call, check in weekly, then attend several court dates, once determined.
What do I need to do now?
What can I expect?
Overall consequences?

Answer

A class b misdemeanor is punishable by a fine of up to $2,000, confinement in jail for up to 180 days or a maximum probationary period for up to 24 months. You have a right to have a trial on this matter and force the State to prove the allegations against you beyond a reasonable doubt. Prior to a trial, your attorney will receive a plea bargain recommendation from the prosecutor assigned to your case. You can accept the offer or reject it and have a trial. You will have to confer with your attorney as to what that offer will be. Good luck.