Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft shop lifting

[cutu]

The state or country I am talking about is: California

I was arrested for petty theft, my first offense. I have a court date coming up and I'm very confused. What is the worst that can happen? What will happen when I go to court? Should I get a lawyer and if yes how can I find an appropriate lawyer to help me in this mess?

 

[NYClex]

This is the law:

§ 490. Petty theft is punishable by fine not exceeding one thousand
dollars ($1,000), or by imprisonment in the county jail not exceeding
six months, or both.


This is the worst that can happen. First time offenders, however, almost never see a jail from the inside. Usually they get a fine, probation, community service or any combination thereof.

About hiring an attorney, that is something you need to decide yourself. You got to keep in mind that a conviction for theft not only carries with it the above mentioned penalties, it will also create a criminal record that can ruin your career and life. So often it is worth hiring professional legal counsel to find out if there are ways to avoid such a conviction and therefore such a record.


Here is an explanation of what happens in court: http://www.courtinfo.ca.gov/reference/guide-criminal.htm

Read this to know more about finding a lawyer:http://www.calbar.ca.gov/state/calbar/calbar_generic.jsp?cid=10581&id=2165