Legal Question in Criminal Law in Kentucky

I was caught shoplifting in a Mall in Fayatte county. I was charged with a class a misdemeanor and have a court date of Feb. 24th. I have never been in trouble before, this is my first offense. I am 20 and a student and want to know if I need a lawyer and if there is anyway to keep this off my record. I also would like to know what I need to do to prepare for my court date and what possible charges I may be facing.


Asked on 1/23/12, 12:40 pm

2 Answer from Attorneys
Andrea Welker Welker Law Office

The Judge will let you know what charge you are facing and the potential penalty at your arraignment, unless you waive arraignment. You can ask for an attorney to be appointed if you cannot afford one. Talk to that attorney about any possible defenses. If you have none, discuss diversion. Since this is your first offense, and a minor one at that, they may be willing to divert the charge, meaning, if you don't get in any more trouble during the diversion period, the charge will be dismissed. You would still have to pay court costs. Otherwise, if you plead or are found guilty, you would need to wait 5 years to petition for expungement, and only if you have no further violations.

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Answered on 1/23/12, 1:32 pm


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