Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft Do I need to go to court for petty theft?

[knight510]

Today I was caught shoplifting.

I know I made a mistake and it was a dumb decision. I am 18 years old. When I got caught, the security guys took to an office and asked me a few questions and got my info.

Then a little bit later, a cop came in and gave me a citation. He told be to call a number on the back of the sheet and set up a court date or pay the fine.

My question is: will I HAVE to appear in court or will I just end up having to pay a fine with no court date?? This is my first ever criminal offense and I'm a good kid. I just don't know anything about it and I just need some help.

 

[army judge]

You can search the internet for more answers.

The standard answer is:

appear when and where directed on the citation
plead not guilty
hire a lawyer (or ask the court to appoint a public defender - you must qualify, the court will explain the qualification process to you)
admit to nothing, confess to nothing, shut yer yap
eventually meet with your lawyer, who will discuss your options

You don't want ANY theft conviction to appear on your record, especially at your age with 50 to 60 years to work and feed yourself looming ahead of you.

Stay out of additional trouble while this matter is pending, and be patient.

Plus, you know what you must never do again.

My general admonishment remains: Don't ever BREAK any of their laws!!!

 

[shrinkmaster]

I am a Retail Theft consultant and answer questions like yours from people like you daily. DO NOT use the option to just pay the fine. It can work like a guilty plea and result in criminal record. Go to court plead not guilty and either hire a lawyer or request public defender. When you meet with this Lawyer ask about your defens eoptions. Be sure to ask if ACD or Diversion is available in your case