A theft offense can be very serious.  In Minnesota, any theft under $500 is a misdemeanor and a theft over $500 but less than 41000 is a gross midemeanor.  A misdemeanor  is punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a $1000 fine.  A gross misdemeanor is punishable by up to one year in jail and a $3000 fine. The collateral consequences of a conviction can also be extremely significant and preclude a person from finding employment where background checks are performed.  Often, if you have no prior offenses, a conviction can be avoided with a Stay of Prosecution.  A Stay of Prosecution means that the offense is never recorded on your record and stayed for a certain periofd of time to ensure that you do not have another offense.   We can assist you in making sure that your record is not affected.  For a FREE consultation call 612.240.8005.Maury D. BeaulierAttorney at Law(612) 240-8005maury@beaulier.com