hi I am an adult and I was charged with theft under for shoplifting from different stores having a total value of about $300. This is my first offense. Do I have to bring a lawyer to my first hearing? What are my chances of getting a diversion without a representative? What will I say during my first hearing? Who do I speak to during or after the hearing for a diversion? Pretty much what are all the things that will happen, and what will I have to do for the best to keep a clean record? Can I just confess at first hearing, and will I have to come back to court again?

I am so scared, I can't tell my parents or friends or anyone at all. I call for legal advice and they all suggest that I get a lawyer (of course). I feel so helpless, I regret so much for what I did. Please, somebody help me, give me some advice. The lawyers ask for $1500 to $2000, is that what they usually charge? I don't have a job, I can't ask my parents for money, they will find out. :'( please please help me

Please tell me what came of this -- I am in exactly the same boat today, I don't even know what was going through my mind, but now I don't even know what to do. Please share your experience and help.

You get an attorney. Next so your parents will find out, most likely they will anyway, hiding things shows another error in judgement again.

Also are you being charged with one count, or many courts one for each store you stole from