shoplifting nurse... License revocation?

[angelenr]

I would appreciate anyone's advice. I'm a middle aged mom, have only been LPN for about a year. I was apprehended for shoplifting about $30 worth of merchandise from walmart. Long story short, I just recently switched from nights to days, pulled a log day at work, had to go to store with hyped up kids. Stressed and frazzled, some merchandise was misplaced and wasnt paid for. I tried to explain to AP but, for obvious reasons the excuse fell on deaf ears. While I wasn't handcuffed and "arrested" I was given a summons (like a ticket) to appear in court to answer the charge of 'petty theft.' I am mortified, embarrassed, distraught and scared to death over the whole ordeal. I have never been arrested in my entire life. Do you think they will revoke my license for this? I haven't been convicted yet, my court date is in Janurary. Do I notify the board now, or only if I am convicted? I just started a new Job, should I tell my employer now? I'm so afraid of losing my job. Any thoughts are appreciated...

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

We're receiving questions that increasingly inquire about the effects of a criminal history on one's nursing licensure. For instance:

• "What happens to me/my license if I am arrested or convicted of a crime after licensure?"
  

These types of questions cannot be accurately answered by the membership of Allnurses.com. The only accurate answer will come from your state board of nursing.

[DisneyMagicMomma]

Get the best lawyer you can afford, and ask for an adjournment in contemplation of dismissal. If you get this, and stay "good" for whatever amount of time the judge orders (he may also order community service), the charge will be dismissed and not on any record. Keep it under your hat until you know what's happening. And check your buggy next time, little mistakes aren't worth it. Best of luck.