Depending on circumstances like your criminal history and the evidence that the prosecutor has against you, it can sometimes be in your interests to pursue a plea deal rather than an outright acquittal.
If you have not yet been convicted for shoplifting in the past, you may be eligible for the shoplifter diversion program.
Diversion programs require you to plead guilty in exchange for the suspension of the sentence you could have received if convicted at trial.
You must, however, complete the diversion program’s requirements. These requirements often come in the form of probation, community service, and mandatory classes.
If you complete the diversion program successfully, the charges are often dropped and your record is wiped clean.
If you fail in any regard, the case goes straight to sentencing because you have already pleaded guilty.
