Retail Fraud Charges in Clinton County: What to Expect in 65A District Court with Judge Andrew Stevens

Facing a retail fraud charge in Clinton County can feel overwhelming, especially if this is your first time dealing with the criminal justice system. Most people walking into the 65A District Court in St. Johns have never been in trouble before. They’re good people who had a lapse in judgment during a stressful moment—not “criminals.”

If your case is assigned to Judge Andrew Stevens, it helps to understand what matters to him and how this court approaches first-time shoplifting cases.

Understanding the Court’s FocusJudge Stevens values preparation, honesty, and ownership. He pays attention to:

• who you are as a person,
• what was going on in your life at the time,
• and whether you’ve taken proactive steps to grow from the incident.

He’s not interested in excuses. He is interested in insight. When someone shows genuine reflection, the judge is far more open to outcomes that avoid long-term damage.

Why Good People End Up Here

Most retail fraud cases in Clinton County involve:

• stress,
• anxiety,
• distraction,
• emotional overwhelm,
• financial pressure,
• or simply a momentary lapse in judgment.

Clients often say the incident felt “out of character” or “like an out-of-body moment.” That’s normal — and exactly why this court responds so well to self-awareness and proactive work.

How Retail Fraud Is ChargedMichigan law breaks retail fraud into three levels:

• 3rd Degree (under $200): 93-day misdemeanor
• 2nd Degree ($200–$1,000): 1-year misdemeanor
• 1st Degree (over $1,000): felony

In Clinton County, most first-time cases fall into 3rd Degree.

Why Proactive Work Matters in 65A Court

Clients who do well before Judge Stevens usually complete:

• a theft-awareness or decision-making class,
• early counseling if appropriate,
• a personal reflection letter,
• community service,
• character statements.

This isn’t busywork. It signals responsibility and makes negotiation much easier.

Can You Avoid a Conviction?

Yes, many first-time offenders avoid a retail fraud conviction in Clinton County.

Depending on the details, options may include:

• a dismissal after completing conditions,
• a first-offender deferral,
• plea reductions to non-theft offenses.

A clean record is often achievable when the client shows sincere growth and takes ownership.

A shoplifting case in Clinton County does not define you. With the right approach, this becomes a moment of reflection—not a life sentence. Judge Stevens values preparation, honesty, and insight. If you show that you’re learning from this, you give yourself the best chance to walk away without lasting damage.