I was caught by Law Prevention of a store for shoplifting in Ontario. I had picked up some clothes from their store and was caught by their Security personnel. I followed them to the store and they wanted to check my bags. I cooperated with them and admitted that had picked up the clothes without paying. Also I had some clothes from 3 other stores. The Security people calculated the value of all the goods found and was less than $1,000.00. I accepted my mistake without any resistance and told them it was my first and last mistake. They also called the police for this incidence who gave me letter of appearance in front of the court twice in Ontario, one for my fingerprints and second to appear in front of the judge. I apologized several times and assured them that would not do such a thing again but now its all in the hands of the judge. I am a Canadian citizen, 31 years, have a family (husband and 3yr old child). The police took all this information from me. I'm very much worried about what could happen to me when I go to the court. Should I do a Criminal Lawyer? I just need another chance and assure this would never be repeated.

Would I go without an Attorney? No. Could you - in theory, yes.

If you don't want a criminal record by all means I would retain an Attorney.

You shoplifted from FOUR stores. That means that the other stores could file charges against you at any time.

Would I go without an Attorney? No. Could you - in theory, yes.

If you don't want a criminal record by all means I would retain an Attorney.

You shoplifted from FOUR stores. That means that the other stores could file charges against you at any time.

The Law Prevention people didn't disclose my details to the other stores but returned their items as they were the ones who caught me. When they came to collect their stuff, the Security people didn't let them see me or talk to me.

As per you, what could happen to me in court. What could be my best defense. I don't want criminal charges against me. Could you please advice.

Would I go without an Attorney? No. Could you - in theory, yes.

If you don't want a criminal record by all means I would retain an Attorney.

You shoplifted from FOUR stores. That means that the other stores could file charges against you at any time.

Judy, I don't want a criminal case against me as this could spoil mu future. What do you suggest I should do. What could be my best defense or should I definitely take a criminal lawyer with me. I'm really worried but this wouldn't help. I have to get some advise from you.

You have no defense. You were caught redhanded AND admitted your crime by the Loss (not law) prevention personnel.

What you can hope for is a first offender diversion program, that will will result in probation and maybe community service. Once completed, your record will be expunged.

Yes you get an attorney to help you apply for diversion.

The fact that the store that apprehended you didn't let security from other stores see or talk to you means nothing. Those other stores can still charge you. There would be no benefit to anyone if stores didn't share/exchange information.

Yes, I would hope for a first time offender diversion - and, yes, I would go to Court with an Attorney.

EDIT: Diversion in Ontario is for first time offenders only. If the other stores charge you you would not be eligible for the program. You are also not eligible if you have any other criminal history.