Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

484 (a) pc shoplift

I was booked into Van Nuys Police Dept. on 06-06-08. I was released a few hours later. I was given a court date and branch, however, 10-14 days later when I called the Pub. Def. Office, and my ticket had NOT been filed. I have no job, no money, and if I go to court I'll be needing a Pub. Def. I'm a first time offender, and plan to show up on the day in question, but, Scince I'm not in the system should I go to the clerks office first, or should I go straight to the court room and wait for my name? Also, if I do enter the court room first, should I present my ticket (THAT HASN'T BEEN FILED!) to the bailiff, or should I just sit quietly and wait for the role call to finish?


Asked on 7/01/08, 3:01 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Jacek W. Lentz Law Offices of Jacek W. Lentz

Re: 484 (a) pc shoplift

Unfortunately, there is not much you can other than keep showing up to court on designated date(s). Keep checking with the public defender - probably the best idea - although it does not hurt to ask the bailiff. Sometimes the bailiff can be more available and more helpful.

If your case is not filed again, make sure you get a stamp or receipt or some kind of proof that you actually appeared. Unfortunately, getting angry that your case is not filed will do you much good. It is very common that cases are not filed on the day a defendant is told to show up.

Hope this helps,

Jacek W. Lentz, Esq.

310.273.1361

www.lentzlawfirm.com

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Answered on 7/02/08, 4:01 am


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