What To Do If Your Teen is Convicted of Theft

Discovering that your teen has been convicted of theft can be overwhelming and stressful for any parent. You may have a lot of questions: What does this mean for their future? How can you help them navigate the legal system? What steps should you take to ensure they learn from this experience and avoid future legal trouble? While every case is unique, there are important steps parents can take to support their teens during this difficult time. This article will guide you through what to do if your teen is convicted of theft, help you understand the legal implications, and provide advice on how to move forward as a family.

1. Understand the Consequences of the Conviction

First, it’s important to understand the potential consequences of a theft conviction, as they can vary depending on the severity of the crime, the value of the stolen property, and your teen’s previous criminal record. The legal penalties for theft can range from fines and community service to probation or even juvenile detention, depending on the case.

• Petty theft typically involves the theft of low-value items and may result in lighter penalties, such as fines or community service. For a first-time offense, the court may offer diversion programs aimed at rehabilitation rather than punishment.
• Grand theft involves the theft of higher-value property or more serious circumstances (such as burglary or using force during the crime) and can carry heavier penalties, including probation or incarceration.
• Juvenile vs. adult court: In most cases, teens will be tried in juvenile court, which is generally more focused on rehabilitation than punishment. However, in certain cases, especially if the teen is close to 18 or if the crime is particularly serious, the case could be transferred to adult court, where penalties are more severe.

Knowing the details of the conviction will help you understand what steps you can take to support your teen and potentially reduce the impact of the conviction on their life.

2. Work With a Criminal Defense Attorney

If your teen has been convicted of theft, one of the most important steps you can take is to consult with a criminal defense attorney who specializes in juvenile law. While the conviction has already been made, there may still be legal options available to lessen the penalties, such as appealing the decision, negotiating for reduced sentencing, or participating in rehabilitation programs.

A San Diego theft crimes attorney can explain your teen’s rights, guide you through the legal process, and advocate for leniency where appropriate. In some cases, they may be able to negotiate alternatives to detention, such as probation, counseling, or restorative justice programs that focus on making amends to the victim rather than imposing harsh punishment.

3. Explore Alternative Sentencing or Diversion Programs

Many juvenile courts offer alternative sentencing or diversion programs designed to steer teens away from further criminal activity and help them reintegrate into society. These programs focus on rehabilitation and accountability, which can help reduce the long-term consequences of a conviction.

• Diversion programs: For first-time offenders or minor theft cases, courts may offer diversion programs in place of traditional sentencing. These programs may include community service, education, and counseling aimed at preventing future offenses.
• Restorative justice programs: Restorative justice focuses on repairing the harm caused by the crime, often by requiring the offender to apologize to the victim, make restitution, or participate in mediation. This approach can be particularly effective for teens, as it encourages accountability and empathy while avoiding harsher penalties.
• Probation: In some cases, the court may impose probation instead of incarceration. Probation allows your teen to remain at home and attend school but requires them to follow strict conditions, such as meeting with a probation officer, attending counseling, or staying out of trouble.

Work closely with your teen’s attorney to explore all possible alternatives to detention. These programs can help your teen learn from their mistake and avoid becoming entangled in the criminal justice system long-term.

4. Provide Emotional Support and Guidance

Teens are still developing emotionally and cognitively, and a theft conviction can be a life-altering event. It’s important to provide your teen with emotional support during this difficult time. A conviction can leave them feeling ashamed, scared, or unsure about their future, and they’ll need your reassurance to help them move forward.

Here are a few ways you can offer support:

• Open communication: Create a safe space for your teen to express their feelings, concerns, and regrets. Encourage them to talk openly about the experience, what led to the theft, and how they feel about the consequences.
• Stay involved: Be actively involved in your teen’s life as they go through the legal process and beyond. Attend court hearings, meet with probation officers or counselors, and show them that you’re there to support them every step of the way.
• Encourage accountability: While providing emotional support, it’s also important to encourage accountability. Help your teen understand that while everyone makes mistakes, they must take responsibility for their actions and work toward making amends.

5. Focus on Rehabilitation and Growth

A theft conviction doesn’t have to define your teen’s future. With the right support and resources, they can learn from the experience and make positive changes in their life. Encouraging your teen to take responsibility for their actions and participate in rehabilitation programs can help them grow and avoid future legal trouble.

• Counseling: Therapy or counseling can be incredibly beneficial for teens convicted of theft, especially if they struggle with underlying issues like peer pressure, impulsive behavior, or emotional problems. A counselor can help your teen explore the reasons behind their actions and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
• Community service: Volunteering or engaging in community service can give your teen a sense of purpose and help them understand the value of contributing positively to society. It can also serve as a way for them to make amends for their crime.
• Educational opportunities: Encourage your teen to focus on their education and future goals. Whether they’re in high school or approaching college age, emphasize the importance of staying on track academically and planning for their future.

6. Help Them Understand the Long-Term Impact

While it’s important to focus on rehabilitation and growth, it’s also crucial that your teen understands the potential long-term consequences of a theft conviction. A criminal record, even for a juvenile offense, can impact their ability to:

• Apply for jobs: Many employers conduct background checks, and a criminal record can make it harder for your teen to find employment.
• Get into college: Colleges may ask applicants about their criminal history, and a theft conviction could affect their chances of admission.
• Qualify for financial aid: Some financial aid programs may deny assistance to applicants with criminal records.
• Rent housing: A criminal record can also affect their ability to rent an apartment or qualify for housing.

However, it’s important to note that in some cases, juvenile records may be sealed or expunged, which means they won’t be visible to the public. A criminal defense attorney can advise you on whether your teen’s record might be eligible for sealing or expungement after they’ve completed their sentence.

7. Consider the Option of Expungement

In certain cases, your teen’s criminal record may be eligible for expungement, which means the record will be sealed and won’t show up on background checks. Expungement can be particularly beneficial when your teen reaches adulthood and begins applying for jobs, college, or housing.

Eligibility for expungement varies by state, and certain crimes may not be eligible. However, if your teen completes their probation or diversion program successfully, they may qualify to have their record sealed. Talk to a criminal defense attorney to learn more about whether expungement is an option for your teen.

Conclusion

While learning that your teen has been convicted of theft can be overwhelming, it’s important to take proactive steps to support them through this challenging time. By working with a criminal defense attorney, exploring alternative sentencing programs, and providing emotional support, you can help your teen move forward and make positive changes in their life. Remember that a theft conviction doesn’t have to define their future — with the right guidance, they can learn from their mistake and build a brighter path ahead.