Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft being charged with petty theft with a prior?

[cbchef83]

My mom was caught stealing less than $40.00 worth of stuff at Target in San Diego CA. She was detained in the back and then the cops came and took her. When she was at the police station she started to have an anxiety attack and was rushed to the hospital. She was charged for petty theft with a prior (668/488 pc) her last prior was almost over 20 years ago. But while at the police station the officer told her she had a prior in 2005 (which she absolutely does not). While at the hospital she was given her release papers and a date to appear in court.

So I was wondering if anyone knows what she could expect? Could she be going to jail? Community Service? Should we get her a lawyer? I don't know and I am really worried about her.

 

[thelawjournal]

With a second offense jail is a very real possiblity. Yes she should seek legal advice from a quaified Attorney in your area. I woud also suggest (Judge proably will anyways) she enroll in an Anti Shoplifting course. If she does so before court its very possible the Judge will look kindly on her efforts. Send me a PM or email and I can recommend a good Anti Shoplifting program she can take online

 

[cbchef83]

Thank you very much for answering my questions. If you could let me know where she could get those classes I would appreciate it. Also where could she get free legal aid? And for about how long might she be put in jail? Thank you again for your help.

 

[thelawjournal]

If she needs an Attorney and cannot afford one she can request a public defender on her first court date. Far as jail or that possibility she should discuss this with her Attorney. He will know the Judge's habits best. As I told you contact me either through PM (private message) or email and I will give you the contact info for Anti Shoplifting program. If I post it here is could be called "free advertising". I want to avoid that