Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft PLEASE SOMEONE HELP...

[willc121]

Okay it's the typical petit larceny case. It was my first offense i got caught for shoplifting 187 dollars worth of stuff in NY. Now i need someone to clear this up with me. do i plead guilty or not guilty? i OBVIOUSLY took the stuff, hence the reason I'm going to court. My friends who have also gotten caught shoplifting, tell me to plead guilty, and are calling me dumbass if i plead not guilty. But, after calling several lawyers, they all tell me to plead NOT guilty. I dont understand. what do i do? i'm SO confused. PLEASE HELP!

 

[willc121]

and please explain to me why i should plead guilty or not guilty, because i am VERY confused and worried. My arraignment date it september 7th. What exactly happens at my arraignment court date? Is it over then and there? or will i need to come back to court multiple times

 

[thelawjournal]

Your "friends" are no tlikely Lawyers are well versed in the law. therefore ignore that advice. First off you start calling Lawyers many offer free consultations, get as many as you can. When you meet with said Attorneys ask them about diversion. If yuo do not hire any of these lawyers then you plead not guilty and request Public Defender in court. By walking in an djust pleading guilty Judge will sentence as he sees fit. No plea deal just whatever he wants to give you. Not a very good gamble