Legal Question in Criminal Law in New York

teenager got caught stealing
My daugter got caught stealing a skirt, on the day of her birthday, she turned 18. She was taken to a
precinct by police in handcuffs, and has a court date. We
want to hire an attorney to get it off her record. She is a good girl, we did not have any troubles with her before. She says she did not steal it, it was a mistake and bad circustances. She put skirt in her pocketbook, paid for a dress, and forgot to take out a skirt. She lost tisket in a dressing room and was blamed by security that she took it off on purpose. My question is:
1. Do we have to hire a laywer? $1500 is lawyer's fee, a lot of money for us. Can she rely on the legal aid lawyer and plead not guilty? Of cource if it's absolulely necessary we will find money.
2. What has to be done to take it of her record?
3. I think she stole, she says it was a mistake. Do we tell
the truth to the Lawyer,or I stand behind her and say it was a mistake.

Asked on 3/16/09, 9:35 pm

5 Answers from Attorneys

Steven Czik CZIK LAW PLLC

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Re: teenager got caught stealing

You should not expect jail time, but it would be highly recommended to have an experienced lawyer with you defending you and preserving your rights in court. It would also greatly increase the chance of lowering the charges or possible dismissal. We have substantial experience handling these types of cases and reasonable fees, however, we would need some more information before making a complete and proper determination. You are welcome to contact us for a free consultation.

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STEVEN J. CZIK, P.C.

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Answered on 3/24/09, 12:40 pm

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Robert Evans Robert S. Evans esq.

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Re: teenager got caught stealing

You would be best serveed by retaining a private attorney. Whereas legal aid attorneys are good lawyers, they have enormous caseloads. Your daughter would be better served with more personal treatment. An attorney handling this case for $1500.00 is very reasonable. Don't be penny wise pound foolish, your child's future is at stake. I would be happy to analyze the case with your and your daughter. I may be able to match the cost. You may contact my office @7188340087.

Answered on 3/17/09, 5:04 pm

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Carlos Gonzalez Gonzalez Legal Associates PLLC

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Re: teenager got caught stealing

A legal air attorney essentially has no liability to you, and

Is not directly employed by you. Furthermore, district attorneys

will give me deals they never would a public defender knowing

That as a private attorney I would be prepared to take things

To a greater level than any public defender.

Feel free to call us for assistance at 2127098303

Answered on 3/16/09, 9:47 pm

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NEAL SPECTOR, ESQ. NEAL S. SPECTOR, P.C.

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Re: teenager got caught stealing

If this is her first offense and the price of the skirt is less than a thousand dollars, I think you can find better priced counsel. I don't kow what court she is in but email me at [email protected] and I can revioew it with you further.

Answered on 3/17/09, 8:10 am

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