Successful completion of diversion may allow the charge to be dismissed or later expunged, meaning it may be removed from the public criminal record. However, this is not guaranteed, and every case depends on the judge, prosecutor, and local practice.
It is also important to understand the cumulative 1st offense misdemeanor shoplifting mississippi effect of additional charges. **A second or subsequent offense**, even if for a small value, can trigger harsher consequences, and shoplifting **$1,000 or more** becomes a **felony** under Mississippi law. A misdemeanor conviction can still have long-term consequences, including difficulty with employment, school admissions, licensure, and immigration matters. That is why legal counsel is strongly advised, even for a first offense.
In short, **first-offense misdemeanor shoplifting in Mississippi** applies when the value is under $1,000 and carries potential jail time, fines, restitution, and long-term record consequences. Courts sometimes show leniency to first-time offenders, but the charge is still serious, and proactive legal handling can significantly affect the result.
So, the answer to the common question: “Do I need an attorney for DUI first offense?” is YES. Luckily, even for indigent DUI arrestees, a public defender is guaranteed by the 6th Amendment of the United States Constitution.
Is there a possibility of D.U.I. first offense MS jail time? Positively, this can happen. The DUI statute in Mississippi calls for 48 hours of jail time,