My teen was arrested for shoplifting — will it follow them forever?

For a first-offense juvenile shoplifting charge in Texas, there is a good chance your daughter will be handled through the juvenile justice system rather than adult court. Depending on the value of the merchandise, this is likely a Class C misdemeanor (under $100) or Class B misdemeanor. Juvenile records in Texas are sealed when the minor turns 17 or 21 depending on the offense, and she may also be eligible for deferred prosecution or a consent decree that avoids a formal adjudication. Hire a juvenile criminal defense attorney before her court date — a good outcome now protects her college and job prospects significantly.