Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft Theft

[learningirl]

I was at a store about a month back when I stole some stuff. As a was walking out a undercover cop stopped me along with his other co-workers. They went through my stuff and took everything out. M price came up to $289 and some change (federal charge it $400 in California). As I was waiting they told my to give them all my basic information and I did, they called the police and my mom. When they were both there the officer said it would be between the store and me, not court.

Now I'm getting letters telling me to choose to pay $75, 5-hours of community service, or go to court. My mother and I agreed to NOT go to court seeing that I would obviously be guilty an go to jail, therefore we are paying the price. A few days later a got a letter telling me to get ready for court...why?? I'm only 14 and don't want to go to jail. I learned my lesson.

 

[army judge]

You need to talk to your mother and ask her to either hire a lawyer before the court date or go to court.

If she decides to take you to court, she simply pleads not guilty for you, and she can request the court appoint a public defender to represent her and you.
If the court approves the public defender, you and mom meet with the lawyer and discuss your options.

No one knows why they changed their minds, and it doesn't matter. What does matter is that you and mom don't miss the court date. You really don't want to add something else for her and you to deal with.

So, talk to her, and tell her that you and her have no choice to not go. If she decides not to go, it'll add more charges and more potential for some very bad results. If you and mom go, ask for a lawyer, you can fix this. Good luck.

 

[cbg]

They're not going to put a 14 year old in jail for $289. But it sounds as if SOMEONE, be it you and your mom, or a lawyer your mom hires on your behalf, had better be in court representing you.

I'm going to ask someone who has many years experience in the CA courts to look at this. Hold please.

 

[Betty3]

I have a feeling I know who you are going to ask cbg & that person knows what they are talking about. Please still hold.

 

[mightymoose]

There is nothing for YOU to do. This entirely up to your parents.