Last week, I was caught shoplifting at HBC in Vancouver, BC. I am 20 years old. This is my first offence. I had about $400 worth of clothing in my bag, and I did not yet leave the store. While I was walking around, I was having second thoughts and was going to return to the changing room to put the goods away. On my way to the changing room, a loss prevention officer apprehended me and called the police. I have talked with a lawyer, have gone to talk to legal aid, basically the information I have received is that I can ask for diversion or alternate measures. For diversion or alternate measures, do I ask the judge when I am at court; the same time when I ask for particulars? Would writing a letter to the judge be appropriate and to show my means of changing? If so, when would I give this letter to the judge? I do not have the money for a lawyer, and any help would be greatly appreciated! I have truly learned my mistakes and hope to move on from this embaressing moment...

Thanks in advance!

Ask for the diversion program when you appear in court.

You need to get the money the store will send you a bill for about 400 dollars or more for a civil penalty.
The court in the diversion will have about a 400 to 1000 dollar fine, plus probation costs.

Ask for the diversion program when you appear in court.

You need to get the money the store will send you a bill for about 400 dollars or more for a civil penalty.
The court in the diversion will have about a 400 to 1000 dollar fine, plus probation costs.

Will this be on my first appearance when I receive the particulars that I ask for the diversion program? I have received a letter from a lawyer for $595 for civil penalty. Will there always be a fine in the course of having diversion? I am a student working part time, making about $400 a month... I will be sending a money order to the lawyer for $595... and my appearance date being in 2 weeks month.. Im quite nervous about the other fines I have incurred. Thanks for the quick response Chuck!

Can anyone give me more insight? I am looking to become an Optometrist in the future... If I do succed in getting diversion, will it still affect my chances of being an Optometrist? I'm due to get my fingerprints on the 23rd, and first appearance on the 30th. Do I ask for diversion on the day of my first appearance? Thanks in advance