How severe is the sentencing for a second misdemeanor offense?
Question Details:I was arrested less than 6 months ago for a Domestic Violence (3rd degree) misdemeanor charge. I was put into a diversion program, 6 months of anger management, which I am still completing. Recently, I was arrested for another misdemeanor, Shoplifting 3rd. I am 20 years old and I was told that I might be able to still plead Youthful Offender. What I would like to know is, is that true? And more importantly, is it normal for a jail sentence to be given for a 2nd offense so soon after the 1st, even if they are both misdemeanors?
People are generally eligible for a Youthful Offender Program if they are 17 years of age or younger. You are 20 years old based on your email. Therefore you will probably not qualify for the YO program. Furthermore, YO programs are reserved for first time offenders, not repeat offenders. With that being said, the next question is what is your likely penalty. The state is not going to have any symathy for you based on the fact that you are getting into more trouble and are not learning from your mistakes or the classes you are taking. However, the charges are not serious crimes. Therefore, the state is likely going to issue you a fine for the shoplifting and/or place you on probation with jail time hanging over your head if you are arrested within a year. i suggest that you hire a lawyer to help you as you are exposed to a potential disposition that places you in jail for a long time the next time you are arrested.
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