I was caught shoplifting at Wal-Mart in West Virginia. The items were about $40. I am cared to death. I am 26 years old and have never been in any kind of trouble before. I have been suffering from anxiety and depression and have been trying to get an appointment to see a counsler for this.I haven't been thinking clearly lately. I am also up to my eyeballs in medical bills and other bills that I can barely pay. I can't afford a lawyer. I need to know if I should tell the judge about my conditons when I go to court or will the judge not really care and think I am making excuses. I don't want to go to jail. I have 3 babies and no money. The embarrassment from this is more than I can handle! I just want to have an idea of what to expect. What will it be like in court? Will there be a bunch of people in there while I am in front of the judge or will it just be the judge?

Yes, it will be an open Courtroom. Will you be put in jail for $40? I would say no. Will you get a fine, possibly probation, have to make restitution? I would say so, yes.

I would get an appointment with a mental health worker BEFORE you go to Court and take paperwork from that worker to Court with you - otherwise, yes, it sounds like an excuse. Lots of people are in terrible financial circumstances right now and they aren't out there, shoplifting. You have to explain why this was an alternative for you.