Is there a way to keep a Utah shoplifting charge off my record?

Any time you are charged with a crime in Utah, you have the right to have a jury trial.  If you win at trial with a not guilty verdict, no conviction will enter on your record.  Additionally, if a not guilty verdict is achieved a trial, you may be eligible to have the entire matter (including an arrest and charge) expunged from your record after 30 days.

Depending on your circumstances, a Utah shoplifting charge can range in severity from a minor misdemeanors to a more serious felony charge.  If you are facing a misdemeanor shoplifting charge and do not have a prior criminal record, there may be another option for keeping a shoplifting charge off your record.  A "plea in abeyance" agreement can allow you to essentially earn a dismissal of your case by complying with certain conditions imposed by the judge.  Upon full compliance with the court's orders, you can file a motion to dismiss the entire case.  Under Utah law, you may be eligible to have the arrest expunged thirty days after the case is dismissed.

If you are facing shoplifting charges or other crimes in Utah, there are many ways to deal with your case.  An experienced Utah criminal defense attorney can help you decide on the best strategy for handling your case.  Salt Lake City criminal defense lawyer Stephen Howard has a track record that includes dismissals or not guilty verdicts in cases ranging from aggravated robbery to DUI.

Contact us now to schedule an initial consultation with Utah criminal defense lawyer Stephen Howard.