Hello:
I was wondering if I could get some help.
I am from Canada, I was caught shoplifting in a store in Buffalo for the amount of $135. This is a first time offence and was classified as a CLASS A Misdemeanor under 155.25. While, I was in the store the security gave me a form to write a statement, which I did. He basically said that usually these cases are looking for compliance and that if I don't, it would affect me negatively. I was arrested and taken to the police station where they finger-printed me and took my picture. Then I met with a judge who set a bail on me for $400 US and gave me a court date in December. I was taken to county jail where another set of pictures were taken. I made bail and have come back to Canada. I, intend to go back for my court date. I have been given a form which gives me the information to contact a public defender. I have a couple of questions:
* I have read a couple of posts and saw that diversion is an option, however since I live in Canada, I was wondering if it would apply to me?
* Since, I have been given the information to contact a public defender, should I contact them immediately or should I contact other lawyers and get more information?
* Do free consultations with lawyers usually come with an obligation to take them up on it? Or do I let them know from the start that I cannot afford a lawyer and therefore I am just calling for information?
* Will I be able to travel to the US or will this impede my future travels?
This was in effect a terrible judgement on my part and ofcourse I'm remorseful. I'm trying to get as much information to make an educated decision.
Thank you for your help.
I was wondering if I could get some help.
I am from Canada, I was caught shoplifting in a store in Buffalo for the amount of $135. This is a first time offence and was classified as a CLASS A Misdemeanor under 155.25. While, I was in the store the security gave me a form to write a statement, which I did. He basically said that usually these cases are looking for compliance and that if I don't, it would affect me negatively. I was arrested and taken to the police station where they finger-printed me and took my picture. Then I met with a judge who set a bail on me for $400 US and gave me a court date in December. I was taken to county jail where another set of pictures were taken. I made bail and have come back to Canada. I, intend to go back for my court date. I have been given a form which gives me the information to contact a public defender. I have a couple of questions:
* I have read a couple of posts and saw that diversion is an option, however since I live in Canada, I was wondering if it would apply to me?
* Since, I have been given the information to contact a public defender, should I contact them immediately or should I contact other lawyers and get more information?
* Do free consultations with lawyers usually come with an obligation to take them up on it? Or do I let them know from the start that I cannot afford a lawyer and therefore I am just calling for information?
* Will I be able to travel to the US or will this impede my future travels?
This was in effect a terrible judgement on my part and ofcourse I'm remorseful. I'm trying to get as much information to make an educated decision.
Thank you for your help.
