Legal Question in Criminal Law in Florida

Shop lifting

I did something stupid. I got caught shoplifting last week and was caught. It was listed as a misdemeanor but I have to go to court. Do I need a lawyer. What will happen in court? I'm scared!


Asked on 11/26/07, 8:22 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

Scott R. Jay Law Offices of Scott R. Jay

Re: Shoplifting

NOTE: This communication is not intended as and should not be interpreted as legal advice. Rather, it is intended solely as a general discussion of legal principles. You should not rely on or take action based on this communication without first presenting ALL relevant details to a competent attorney in your jurisdiction and then receiving the attorney's individualized advice for you. By reading the "Response" to your question or comment, you agree that the opinion expressed is not intended to, nor does it, create any attorney-client relationship, nor does it constitute legal advice to any person reviewing such information, nor will it be considered an attorney-client privileged communication. If you do not agree, then stop right here, and do not read any further.

If this is your first offense, you will probably be offered a pretrial diversion program. If you accept this deal, you will go to a counseling program and if you complete it successfully then all charges will be dropped. You should be informed of this prior to the arraignment which is usualy scheduled within 20 days of your arrest. If you are not offered the program, then you might want to retain counsel to represent you as the State will not provide a public defender unless they are seeking jail time.

Scott R. Jay, Esq.

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Answered on 11/28/07, 12:05 pm


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