Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft Biggest mistake of my life

[duckbutt]

hello everyone! my first time here... and this is my story (20 yrs old from california by the way): so I got caught shoplifting in a department store a couple of days ago, got caught with $70 worth of stuff, then spent 3 hours in jail. Now i have a court date in may and i just had a couple of questions:

1: would this affect my student loans/ grants?

2: what would be the best option for me right now? i heard something about a diversion program? should i be shooting for that?

3: how long do i have to have the record for before it can get expunged?

4: is there anyone i could talk to right now? such as a criminal defense lawyer?

5: should i get a Public defender? or pay the extra money and get a lawyer?

thank you so much for your time

 

[thelawjournal]

1: would this affect my student loans/ grants?
It could yes

2: what would be the best option for me right now? i heard something about a diversion program? should i be shooting for that?
Yes

3: how long do i have to have the record for before it can get expunged?
If you get diversion that wont be needed

4: is there anyone i could talk to right now? such as a criminal defense lawyer?
Start calling and setting up consultations

5: should i get a Public defender? or pay the extra money and get a lawyer?
It doesnt work that way. If you can afford a private Attorney you do not qualify for public defender