Legal Question in Criminal Law in Florida

Help! I haven never been arrested before and have a very clean record. In June, I was very depressed and broke because I was laid off from my job that I worked at for over a year. So broke that I couldn't afford my depression medicine. I decided to go to a drug store and take several beauty products. To make this short, they caught me and the police came. I have a court date set for the end of July and I am scared to death of facing a judge. I cannot afford a lawyer but my mom talked to her regular lawyer and he said that I should apply for the P.T.I program, which is probation. I will do anything to get this off my record because I am truly a good person and plan on having a successful future. This action was just me being stupid and not thinking before I act. I reside in New Port Richey, FL which is in Pasco County. What should I do? I need it off my record and like I said...I can't afford a lawyer. :/ Help please.


Asked on 7/22/10, 11:25 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Craig Epifanio Craig Epifanio, P.A.

Before you do anything, talk to the public defender. They can discuss the pros and cons of PTI and what you are facing. I know the judges in Pasco county and while they are tough, with a good argument they can be fair. Again, talk to your PD, because that is who you will use when you can't afford a lawyer.

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Answered on 7/23/10, 11:12 am


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