I put a $19,99 watch on my wrist today and walked out of sears without paying. A few yards outside the store a guy ran up to me and asked me for the watch and to come back to L&P with him. So I went. I sat there forever as they did paperwork... I signed nothing that admitted guilt, but I did sign paper from sears saying that I would receive a fine in the mail within a few weeks for the theft. After about 3 hrs 2 cops came and issued me a citation after asking questions and searching me for anything else that could have been stolen. I had nothing.. This is my first offense of any kind. The two cops walked me out of the store, and to my car where they proceeded to search it for any other stolen property or drugs. (I don't know why they were so intent on looking for drugs, and asking me about drugs, when drugs have never been anything that I've been into and there is definitely nothing on ym record about drugs either.) nonetheless, they searched my car-- where there was nothing illegal. So I got handed my ticket that said to appear in court on April 2nd. One of the cops also explained to me that I HAVE to call the police station and make an appt to get booked sometime BEFORE I appear in court. He said all I have to do is come in, get fingerprinted, photo, sign stuff, etc... And then I could go.


So basicallly I have no idea where to go or what to do. I know I got to get that 'booking' taken care of, and that is no problem. But what is going to happen at court? I am so scared. I am a 27 female student. Do I need a lawyer? What would happen if I went without a lawyer versus if I DO go WITH a lawyer? What will a lawyer do for me? And what do you think are the possible outcomes that will come of this. (from worst to best scenario, I am completely clueless and would like any advice. ) advice and help would be so oooo greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance.

An attorney may get you into a first offender program. Since you are not making any excuses, it appears you did intend to steal this and the store and the police assume you were stealing more. Many people steal to buy drugs and there is a high connection to shoplifting and minor drug use.

So in almost all cases, you will get a fine in court ( my guess 300 to 500 dollars) most likely a year probation. The store will send you a bill for their "civil costs" that will be about 300 to 500 dollars also ( educated guess) and most likely banned from the store.

With an attorney you have a chance for this not to show up on your record after you finish probation,