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I haven't gotten the date for court yet and I'm unsure how i should go about this whole thing being that this was my first charge.

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I'm an 18-year-old girl who was told that i was going to be charged with a misdemeanor and i will receive court dates in the mail. I haven't gotten the date for court yet. The misdemeanor was for shoplifting in Walmart and the merchandise was under 500 dollars i also was not arrested on that day. this is also my first charge my record was clean be for this.

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The response provided below is specific to Criminal defense attorney in the jurisdiction of Pennsylvania. If the response is inadequate, please submit a detailed inquiry.

As an 18-year-old facing your first charge for a misdemeanor related to shoplifting at Walmart in Pennsylvania, it's crucial to understand the legal implications and prepare accordingly. Given that the merchandise was valued under $500 and you were not arrested on the day of the incident, your case falls under a less severe category of misdemeanors, but it still requires careful handling.

Relevant Pennsylvania Laws

In Pennsylvania, shoplifting offenses are typically dealt with under the retail theft statutes. Key laws to be aware of include:

  • 18 Pa.C.S. § 3929: This statute covers retail theft and its penalties in Pennsylvania.
  • 18 Pa.C.S. § 106: Classification of crimes, which helps determine the gravity of your misdemeanor.
  • 18 Pa.C.S. § 110: Legal provisions for sentencing and penalties in criminal cases.

For more comprehensive legal information, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website.

Possible Resolutions and Legal Steps

  1. Legal Representation: Considering this is your first offense, and the value of the merchandise was relatively low, you might be eligible for certain diversionary programs like Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD). However, securing legal representation from a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer can significantly impact the outcome.

  2. Diversion Programs: If eligible, programs like ARD can help in avoiding a criminal record. Your attorney can negotiate this on your behalf.

  3. Court Summons: Keep an eye on mail for the court summons. Failing to appear in court can lead to additional charges.

Cost Analysis for Legal Services in Pennsylvania

Legal Service Average Cost in Pennsylvania Difference from National Average
Initial Consultation with a Criminal Lawyer $250 - $350 +10%
Representation in Misdemeanor Case $1,500 - $3,000 +15%
ARD Program Application and Processing $600 - $800 +5%
Plea Bargaining and Negotiation Services $1,000 - $2,500 +20%
Trial Representation (if necessary) $4,000 - $7,000 +25%

Complexity of Shoplifting Cases

  1. First-Time Offenders: Cases involving first-time offenders like yourself are often more leniently treated, yet they require proper legal representation to ensure the best possible outcome.

  2. Value of Stolen Goods: The value of the stolen items plays a significant role in determining the severity of the charge. In your case, being under $500, it is treated less severely but still seriously.

  3. Diversion Programs Eligibility: Eligibility for diversionary programs depends on various factors, including the nature of the offense and your prior record.

Relevant Questions for You

  1. Have you received any paperwork from the court or law enforcement since the incident? This information is crucial for understanding the current status of your case.

  2. Can you provide more details about the incident, such as the circumstances of the shoplifting? These details might be relevant in building your defense or plea.

  3. Are you currently in school or employed, and how might this charge affect you? This information is important for considering the broader impact of the charge on your life.

Common Questions and Answers

Q1: What should I do if I haven't received a court date yet?

If you haven't received a court date, it's important to actively check your mail and possibly contact the court to ensure you haven't missed any communication. In the meantime, it's advisable to seek legal counsel.

Q2: Can this charge lead to jail time?

For a first-time misdemeanor offense of shoplifting with the item's value under $500, jail time is less likely, especially with proper legal representation. However, each case varies.

Q3: Is it possible to get this charge expunged from my record?

Depending on the outcome of your case and your participation in any diversionary programs, expungement might be an option. Your lawyer can guide you on this process.

Q4: How long will this misdemeanor stay on my record?

If not expunged, a misdemeanor can remain on your record indefinitely. However, its impact may lessen over time, especially if you have no further legal issues.

Q5: Should I plead guilty to the charge?

It's essential to discuss this with your lawyer. They can advise on the best course of action based on the specifics of your case and the available evidence.

Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and does not establish an attorney-client relationship. It's always recommended to consult with a local attorney about your specific situation.

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Legal question " I haven't gotten the date for court yet and I'm unsure how i should go about this whole thing being that this was my first charge." has been changed 1 year 1 month ago. Demonstrate your legal skills and willingness to help and answer right now! Issue is related to the location of Pennsylvania & area of law: Criminal defense attorney.
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A criminal defense lawyer is a lawyer (mostly barristers) specializing in the defense of individuals and companies charged with criminal activity. Some criminal defense lawyers are privately retained, while others are employed by the various jurisdictions with criminal courts for appointment to represent indigent persons; the latter are generally called public defenders. The terminology is imprecise because each jurisdiction may have different practices with various levels of input from state and federal law or consent decrees. Some jurisdictions use a rotating system of appointments with judges appointing a private practice attorney or firm for each case. Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Criminal_defense_lawyer

If you're facing criminal charges (You were detained and imprisoned by the police), You have the right to remain silent. You should remember, that anything you say can and will be used against you in a court. You have - just like anyone else -  the right to an attorney. If you cannot afford an criminal defense attorney, you may qualify for a court-appointed lawyer. 

  • How to Become a Criminal Defense Lawyer? - wikihow.com
  • Tips on how to find the right lawyer to handle your criminal case - nolo.com
  • Various ways that private criminal lawyers charge for their work - nolo.com

How to find and compare top criminal defense law firms that provide legal aid for DUI and other criminal cases? Search Super Lawyers directory, compare criminal attorneys on Justia or browse detailed Avvo reports on Criminal Defense Attorneys across United States.

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A close-up, wide image that conveys a positive and colorful atmosphere, reflecting a legal advisory context. The image should capture a professional and uplifting mood, relating to the situation of a young woman facing her first misdemeanor charge for shoplifting. The setting is a bright, welcoming law office with a friendly, diverse group of legal professionals discussing strategies. The office is modern and filled with vibrant colors, bookshelves, and legal documents. The legal team, consisting of a middl...

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