Legal Question in Criminal Law in Iowa

Iowa: 5th degree theft-simple misdemeanor
I have been charged as stated above. Since this is my first offense, the items stolen totaled at $5.46, and my record is completely clean, I have discussed with the county attorney about the possibility of "deferred judgement." Iowa doesn't offer a diversion with a charge like this. I am just finishing up college and planning/preparing for a study abroad term next year, and I feel like my stupidity has ruined my chances of studying abroad and being able to continue towards my career goals. So my budget is tight, and I'm not sure of what to do before my court date, which is at the end of April. For a crime like this, do I need an attorney to represent me? If so, what difference will this make? Can I just discuss more with the district attorney about asking for a "deferred judgement" with hiring an attorney. Since my budget is tight, can I asked for a public defendant before my court date? Also, in Iowa, are judges usually hesistant to give a "deferred judgement" for a case like mine. Like anyone else in my position, I do have quite an amount of anxiety about how I put my entire future in jeapordy like this. A last note: I have no idea how to talk about my case to a judge and district attorney. I believe the best way is just to be polite and admit my guilt. Is that the best way to go? Any other points for how to talk in a court would be appreciated. Please give me as much input you can from your past experiences with criminal law in Iowa.
You time and insight is very well-appreciated! Thank you!

Asked on 4/03/11, 5:28 pm

Robert Luedeman solo practitioner

0 users found helpful

0 attorneys agreed

Hire an attorney. Your concerns are far too complicated to answer in a mere chatboard.

Answered on 4/05/11, 5:29 pm

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