Legal Question in Criminal Law in Pennsylvania

Shoplifting

My 19 year old daughter was recently caught shoplifting. Here hearing is coming up this week. She has recently applied for a public defender but we received a letter today, that she does not qualify. I'm note sure why, since she is a college student earning $2000/annually. 1. Does she need an atty to represent her? 2. What is the fine for retail shoplifting for items less than $100? Thank you.


Asked on 10/02/04, 3:33 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Charles A. Pascal, Jr. Law Office of Charles A. Pascal, Jr.

Re: Shoplifting

In addition to what Attorney Johns wrote, my question would be what number of offense is this? Retail theft becomes a felony on the third offense. Obviously, the way to avoid a third offense is to avoid a first offense...an attorney may be able to negotiate the charge down to a disorderly conduct or some other charge.

If that cannot be done, if it is a first offense, it is possible that the police/prosecutor may agree to have the punishment be just a fine.

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Answered on 10/04/04, 11:10 am
Mark Johns Mark Johns, Esquire

Re: Shoplifting

Any criminal charge carries with it the potential of jail time. While the risk of this is low for retail theft, it is a possibility. Most judges prefer that the accused have a lawyer. Also, the alternative dispositions to a conviction, ARD, 314, etc. are best negotiated by a lawyer. I offer free consultations. My contact information is in my profile. I accept all major credit cards and am willing to offer payment arrangements.

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Answered on 10/02/04, 7:03 pm


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