Does Petit Theft Go on Your Permanent Record in Florida?
Many people underestimate petit theft and just write it off as a minor charge that doesn’t really result in consequences. But in reality, even low-level theft charges can lead to long-term consequences. Understanding whether petit theft goes on your permanent record is important because employers, landlords, licensing boards, and schools usually rely on background checks when making decisions.
The short answer is yes, a petit theft conviction can appear on your record, but there are options to fight the charge or limit its impact, especially with the help of a qualified criminal defense attorney in Clearwater.
What Is Petit Theft?
Petit theft occurs when someone knowingly takes or uses another person’s property with the intent to deprive them of it, and the property’s value is below $750. Common examples include shoplifting, switching price tags, or taking small-value property without permission. While it still may seem minor to many, these actions are treated as crimes that can result in arrest and prosecution.
Does Petit Theft Go on Your Permanent Record?
A conviction for petit theft, even as a misdemeanor, becomes part of your permanent criminal record. This can appear on background checks unless the record is later sealed or expunged. Many people assume only felony convictions follow them long term, but misdemeanors like petit theft are included as well.
An arrest is completely different than a conviction. An arrest may show up on some background checks, but a conviction carries more serious consequences and can affect employment, housing, professional licenses, and immigration status. Given how much it can affect you, consulting a skilled criminal defense lawyer in Clearwater can help you explore your legal options and attempt to avoid conviction.
Sealing and Expungement Options
Florida law does allow eligible criminal records to be sealed or expunged. Sealing a record limits who can view the record, while expungement removes it from public access entirely in most cases. Eligibility depends on the outcome of the case and the individual’s prior criminal history. Early consultation with a criminal defense attorney in Clearwater ensures you understand these options and how they may apply to your situation.
Long-Term Consequences of a Petit Theft Record
A petit theft conviction can affect many areas of life. Employers may view theft-related offenses as a risk, particularly for positions involving trust or access to money. Colleges, scholarships, and professional licensing boards also consider criminal history, and landlords as well.
Because of the consequences and your freedom being on the line, it really is important to take a petit theft charge seriously. With the guidance and help of a skilled criminal defense lawyer in Clearwater, it may be possible to fight the charge, reduce penalties, or avoid being convicted.
To get your complimentary case consultation, call The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan at (727) 291-9717 today.