Legal Question in Criminal Law in California
488 PC Theft misdemeanor
If being charged with a misd theft what is the legal process after receiving a notice to appear in court and is it possible to change the venue if the county of offence is far from county of residence?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: 488 PC Theft misdemeanor
The process is that you appear in court where you're charged, and defend it or negotiate a plea. Your convenience is of no concern to the court. Feel free to contact me if interested in getting counsel to help you stay out of jail, if the case is in SoCal.
Re: 488 PC Theft misdemeanor
Changes of venue are very rare, and are never granted for the convenience of the accused.
You should get a lawyer to defend you. If you can't afford private counsel, the court will appoint one -- most likely a public defender -- for you. Hire a lawyer yourself if you can, since most public defenders are overworked and can't give their clients enough time.
Good luck.