Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft Petty Theft Misdemeanor w/o Prior in CA

[ulacnaib]

I'm 19 and I was caught shoplifting at a store. They wrote the amount as 49.90 and they didn't write down other items that were stolen from other stores. I was arrested and the police confiscated the other items that were stolen and written them down as evidence. The store told me that I had to pay for their attorney and that I would receive it in the mail 7-10 business days, but I have yet to receive it, and it has almost been a month. What should I do? I cannot afford a lawyer, and I need to apply to colleges in a month. What can I do to minimize my penalty? How much would the fine be? What should I do when I show up in court? Do I plead guilty, no guilty, no contest? What happens when if I get probation? Would the other stores press charges and would I get charged for possession of stolen property? And is there any way to get this off my record or even minimized to an infraction since the store reported an amount less than $50? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Please get back to me when you can. Thank you.

 

[thelawjournal]

First off the letter from the the stores Attorney is likely Civil Demand and totally unrelated to any criminal charges. This can take days, weeks even months to arrive. Its possible due to multiple thefts you might be charged with a felony. Until you see actual charges we cannot say. Because we dont know charges we cant guyess how much fines will be either. You should consult some attorneys whether you hire then or not! Many offer free consultations. You should also enroll in an Anti Shoplifting course so when you do go to court you cna show Judge you are being proactive. Always a good thing. If you like I can give you contact info to Director of such a course send me a PM if you like for that info