chrissy1269
New Member
Back in June 2005 I was caught shopliftimg at Walmart. I had to sign a paper saying I would not EVER go into any Walmart again. I was cited and went to court where I plead guilty and was fined 180.00. In Dec 2005 I was in Walmart again. ( I was in a desperate situation. I was with out transportation and had to purchase things for my children, Walmart was the closest place I could get to without a car.) In any event, while there I intended to purchase an outfit as a x-mas gift. It was raining that day and the carts were all somewhat wet. Rather thn put the clothing in the actual cart I put it on top of my coat which was sitting in the area intended for a small child. I put my purse on top of it (non intentional) I went to pay and honestly forgot about the 2 articles of clothing. As I was walking out 2 people jumped in front of my screaming loss prevention and demanded I go with them. I tried to explain myself and that this was not an attempt to shoplift but they refused to listen to anything I was trying to say.San Jose police was called out and again I was cited and given a court date of Jan 19, 2006. Within the month of December I was evicted, had my car impounded, and was diagnosed with a herniated disc. With everything else happening I somehow managed to miss the court date. A warrant for $5000 was issued for my arrest which I took care of with the assistance of a bails bondsmen. My new court date is on April 4. When I go to court is it best if I plead to not guilty or no contest? Also, I can not afford a lawyer will a public defender be of any help to me? Lastly, if convicted will I do time or more than likely community service?
