How can I get a Class B theft charge removed from my record?

Question

I am 20 years old and I was arrested for shoplifting just over $100 worth of merchandise from a department store in Frisco, TX. I was charged with Class B theft. This is my first and only offense. I need to know:

-When I go for "processing", do I have to establish my plea?

-should I get a lawyer?

-Is it possible to have the charges dropped or removed from my record?

-what does a charge like this one usually cost?

Answer 1

get a lawyer.  it'll be worth the money.  there are plenty of criminal lawyers in frisco and mckinney who can handle it.  good luck.

and quit stealing.  you're just clogging up our system doing stupid c**p like that.  

Answer 2

Answer to question 1.......Yes, you will be allowed to plea Innocent, guilty or no contest.

Answer to question 2........That's up to you whether or not to retain an attorney, an attorney may be able to plea you down to a lesser included offense if the local D.A. is willing to go along with it, a lot will depend on the weight of the evidence against you....i.e. videos, witnesses etc.

Answer to question 3..........Probably not, refer back to question 2, however having the charge expunged may or may not be possible but it would be expensive.

Answer to question 4...........You can expect to pay an attorney anywhere from $200 an hour and up.

p.s.......A class B charge is a misdemeanor and is considered a crime, this will haunt you for the rest of your life, it will always show up on background checks for any decent job you will apply for.......If it was me I'd look to have it reduced to a lesser included offense which won't be a crime (misdemeanor or felony).