shop lifting

[Embarrassed2007]

I was arrested for shop lifting 131.40, a misdemeanor, today. I knew that they were watching me. I admitted to it as I was afraid to lie and also since it was a large store that it could be on tape. I also admitted it to the officer.

I have no excuse. I am having personal issues with my family. I have been through a lot financially and medically.

I have to appear in front of a judge on October 23, 2007. I have never been arrested in my 61 years. I am embarrassed, ashamed and don't know what to expect.

Do I need to get a lawyer? Would I better served to go with my husband.

What can they do to me?

 

[mafioso]

You don't need to bring a lawyer if you can't afford one. If you can, fine, bring one. If you can't just go there and plead not guilty. Then you will be given paper work to request a court appointed lawyer. He would help you cut a plea (differed adjudication) which would be acceptable to you. You will get some probation…….probably less than a year. Then the charges would be dismissed after probation. You can then try to expunge or seal it depending on your state's law. Please post in the right forum next time…….

 

[mafioso]

You have nothing to worry……….You would just be there for some informal first appearance. Nothing really happens on this first day. It would be to see if you have a lawyer and then to set up the next date which only your lawyer needs to appear in most cases. You don't need your husband's presence……..unless you think you want to. Get a lawyer ……………..if you want……read my previous post. My previous post tells you the possible outcomes of the resolution of the case…..it would be most probably a plea agreement given you admitted to the crime. In most cases you can settle this case with a plea without necessarily appearing infront of a judge………..in most states.