Asked 9/21/2016 – McAllen, TX

It was 7 months ago that I got caught shoplifting ($250) from JC Penny. Was arrested, spent almost 2 nights in jail. Finally got my court date for this month. I found out I was pregnant a week after I was arrested and now I am 32 weeks pregnant. I am a nerve wreck. It’s my first offense (AND LAST.) I had also been taking new medication that was prescribed to me for bipolar disorder. I had never shoplifted in my life and I suddenly did. I don’t know if the medication came into play. I will get a public defender since I don’t have money for a private lawyer but I’m going to school for teaching and I’m very scared that this will ruin my chance at being a teacher.

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 of up to 24 months. If you are found guilty, you can be sentenced to punishment anywhere within the range provided by law, so it is POSSIBLE that you can be sentenced to jail, but highly unlikely given the scenario you describe. Even if you are not sentenced to jail, however, the disposition of this case may still affect your future employment possibilities so talk with a local attorney soon.