Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft Arrested for theft $50-500 in Texas

[dreamer85]

My boyfriend and I were arrested for theft which is a misdemeanor class B in Texas and now we are waiting on the court date. This is a first offense for both of us and have an otherwise clean record. I am very nervous about the settling of this case and my main goal is to be able to get it removed from my record eventually. Any advice as to how to go about this? Such as deffered adjucation or things like that? I'm not sure how any of these things work and at this point all I know from my research is to not plead guilty during the first court date when an attorney will be appointed to me. Also, since I never got out of the store with anything, will there be any restitution charges? They said the store will be mailing me a letter in a few weeks saying they could sue but if I reply in a timely manner they won't, but the letter also has to do with paying the restitutions. I would also like to know what I can expect from the court dates and how I can get myself out of this mess.Thanks in advance for any help.

 

[thelawjournal]

I assume you cannot afford an Attorney thus you will seek Public Defender. Here is what you do in mean time. Start calling Lawyers see who offers free consultations. Take all of them up on these. Ask questions get armed with knowledge. What you seek is ACD or Diversion both will protect your record. They are really samething just different names. The Civil fine mentioned by store is unrelated to court fines and will vary by state guidlines and how you stole. Without knowing the value of what you stole I cant really guess. Your court fines should be less than $500.00 if they require you take certain classes or something else you might pay more. If I missed something or you have further questions please ask

 

[dreamer85]

The total was $109. If I can get a free consultation with a lawyer will they expect me to return to them? Or will they just allow me to ask a few questions and then that's it? Because I am going to request a public defender and my first court date. How likely is it that I will be able to get on a diversion program? I am 18 and have no priors to this. Are there any things I can do before court to make it more likely that I will get an easier sentencing?

 

[thelawjournal]

Since the consultation is free the time will be limited. Do not tell them you have no intention of hiring them. Just get as much info as possible in short period of time. Which is why I suggest meeting with several Lawyers. I suspect the likihood of Diversion is good in your case.