Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft First Offense, Didn't Hire Lawyer...

[alwayson]

Hi,

I was apprehended for having a $299 item from a well known store in Texas.

As I said it was the first time, and the last. I'm going to keep you all updated on this post of what happens and what I've learned.

I'm 25 and unemployed at the moment. I was handed a list of requirements to qualify for legal representation, since I live with my dad and can't hire an attorney myself.

My question is, because I will most likely not qualify for legal representation (due to being a higher income household.) My dad who earns 'over' what is necessary to qualify... Since I will expunge this from my record later, I did not tell him and did not want him to know.

Will I be able to get legal representation from the city and pay later, such as within 90 days?

By the way I'm really interested in the NASP programs.

Thanks

 

[thelawjournal]

You really do not want to face this without an Attorney. Ask Judge for Public defender. The worst that can happen is you wont qualify. Talk to Public defender about Diversion as plea option. In mean time start calling Attorneys and set up free consultations (if available). This way you can have the knowledge you need to make best decision on your defense plans.

I generally recommend the shoplifting prevention course given by the NASP.

 

[NormanJr]

Your family can be a great help to you. You never know, they may have gone through this before and just not told you. Their help can be an asset.

It is embarrassing, but you have to put your pride aside and take all the help you can get so that this one stupid action won't affect you for the rest of your life. Most parents want to help their kids. This is a serious thing you have done, don't ruin the rest of your life because you want to hide it from your dad.

They will appreciate your honesty - look you made a mistake that MILLIONS of other people have.

#1 - take a deep breath.
#2 - talk with your family.
#3 - obtain legal counsel before your court date
#4 - enroll in the NASP or a community service program.
#5 - pay your civil demand, obey the trespass and STEAL NO MORE!!

 

[alwayson]

Thank you gentlemen for your helpful answers.

Before I got to the responses I had to go to court to know whether I'd qualify for public defense or not. It turned out I was able to. She was a very sweet lady named Ruth and pregnant with a baby. My Lucky "Baby Ruth".

I am now enrolled in a PRE-TRIAL DIVERSION PROGRAM. The classes are about $600 in total over a period of a few months. And I will make certain that IF I can expunge this from my record, I will. I believe she said I going this route. But I will confirm this soon and let you know.

Admin: Do you know if the NASP program is still a viable thing for me? Ruth said no when I mentioned it to her, but I'd like to get your response before I give up on it.

NormanJr: Wise words. I was able to speak with my cousin over Christmas and confide with him, as he also was in a similar sticky situation with the law.

And to note: This has been an enormous wake up call for myself, and I'm almost glad it happened in a way... It's given me the realization that I can't break the rules and get away with it. Living in an altered reality created by the man in the mirror. Yes, a more happy, positive, and moral outlook on life. I've learned a huge lesson here.

Thanks again.

 

[thelawjournal]

Your NASP question has both a yes and no answer as far as I am concerned. We never tell posters to go against Attorney advice. Ruth is correct it wont change your case at this point. However it will help educate you to shoplifting and how it relates to you and all of us. If you ask me (you did) I personally would suggest (for you rown benefit only) that you take the course. It can be done at home so its not difficult.

On another note please feel free to give us updates to your situation and perhaps share your expereince with others here and elsewhere. I would also like to invite you to post in our testimonial section so we can use those comments to help promote site