Arrest, Search, Seizure, Warrant Arrested for Stealing, what happens next?

[thatwasfun401]

NYC - Queens

My friend was arrested in NYC for attempting to steal $172.00 worth of Paint. We are art students in boston and he stole only 10 tubes of paint, he didnt have money and needed the paints for class.

The store had him sign a Civil Demand and they gave him a court date.

We are very concerned about what happens next, we know he needs to show up for court, but does he need to bring a lawer?

What should he plead? Guilty? He was caught, and has no problem pleading guilty. The objective is to get this to go away as soon as possible.

Will they put him in Jail???!?! If he needs to pay a fine that is no problem. I just cant seem to find any information about this senario. He is 19 years old and lives in NYC.

Thank you everyone who takes the time to read and answer!

 

[calalily]

It never hurts to consult a lawyer and I highly recommend it. If he doesn't have the money, in court he pleads not guilty and ask for a lawyer. He needs to ask the court clerk for the paperwork after the hearing. BUT if he can at least get a consultation before the hearing that may help him decide what he actually needs to do.

 

[mafioso]

Just to add on what Calalily said.............There would be no jail time if it is his first record. He however needs a private lawyer or a PD. Sometimes, even when guilty, procedural errors or lack of certain elements in the case can lead to a dismissal of the charge. So, he should plead not guilty and his lawyer would examine all the evidence as calalily said......Only then would he make an informed decision.