Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft Shoplifting and Possesion

[GB1243]

Today i was arrested for shoplifting at my university book store. The total cost of the stolen items was about $55. While searching me for the stolen items in a detaining room, the loss prevention agents found just under a gram of marijuana in my backpack. I have no visible criminal record besides traffic violations. The agents then called a police officer who came and wrote me one ticket for two misdemeanors. One for possesion of marijuana and one for petit theft. On the ticket it tells me the court date is in february. After some admistrative school procedures were read to me, i was released.

My question is this: I have limited money available to pay for a lawyer. The police officer told me if i had insufficient funds that one could be provided for me. What is the difference between public defenders and personal lawyers? Is it worth the money to get a personal lawyer? Will the public defender be willing to help me the way a lawyer would? How does someone go about getting a publlic defender and do i need to do it before my court date in february? Also, i was looking for any opinions of what possible punishments may be given for these crimes? I have some info on each alone but not being treated together. any words or advice are desired. Please help.

 

[CdwJava]

Today i was arrested for shoplifting at my university book store.

What state was this?

I have no visible criminal record besides traffic violations.

What does it mean not to have a "visible" criminal record? Do you have a sealed or expunged record?

My question is this: I have limited money available to pay for a lawyer. The police officer told me if i had insufficient funds that one could be provided for me. What is the difference between public defenders and personal lawyers?

Only the words used to describe them. A "public defender" is the term commonly used to describe an attorney paid for by the state to represent indigent defendants. A public defender (or contract attorney) attended law school just like a private attorney. In fact, in most counties Except for the larger ones) publicly paid attorneys are also private attorneys, they have merely agreed to represent the indigent for a negotiated fee with the county.

Is it worth the money to get a personal lawyer?

If you have the assets or funds to afford a private attorney, it is likely you will not be eligible for a publicly paid attorney.

Will the public defender be willing to help me the way a lawyer would?

He won't look as busy because he will not have the same incentive (billable hours) to do busy work.

How does someone go about getting a publlic defender and do i need to do it before my court date in february?

That procedure may vary by state. Generally, the P.D.'s office will not get involved until after arraignment, and after the referral comes down.

Also, i was looking for any opinions of what possible punishments may be given for these crimes?

That depends on the laws in your un-named state.

- Carl

 

[GB1243]

My state is california, in san diego. My record is visible but empty because under new york law where i was arrested at the time, i qualified for youthful offender status.

 

[CdwJava]

Well, as for your New York record, don't assume that "youthful offender" status means that your record is unable to be accessed by law enforcement. It might be a consideration, depending upon the nature of the offense.

Assuming you have no other priors and have been charged with possession of marijuana per H&S 11357(b) and petty theft per PC 488, you face up to $1,100 ($1,000 for the theft and $100 for the marijuana) in fines (almost as much in fees) and up to 6 months in jail for the theft. Realistically, you face fines and probation.

- Carl

 

[GB1243]

Thank you for your info. What do you mean by "almost as much in fees."?

 

[CdwJava]

Fees and assessments can be kinda pricey ... could add a few hundred to the whol ething.

- Carl

 

[jacksgal]

Its likely you wil also get a letter of Civil Demand. This is a Civil fine not related to your criminal case and should not exceed $500.00. If you want to get head start on things and put a smile on judges face enroll in an Anti Shoplifting program. This could help with any plea bargain you and your Lawyer might arrange. My husband knows the Director of such a program. If you email me I will provide that email address for you.

pilars_plaything@yahoo.com (no laughing CDW:no

 

[CdwJava]

pilars_plaything@yahoo.com (no laughing CDW:no

Not a word ... not a <snicker> a word ... :roflmao:

- Carl