I have been charged with 5th degree theft by deception when I took $600 from my employer. This is the first time I have EVER been in trouble with the law and the theft was an act of desperation in order to feed my family and pay a bill. I asked for previous help from my employer(wal-mart) for an advance towards my check but they refused. I have 4 daughters and have been married for 9 years. What are the chances of jail time or what might happen in the process?

Thanks

You need an Attorney. In my area WalMart most definitely doesn't fool around - they will prosecute to the full extent, particularly when it's employee theft.

You need an Attorney. Now.

I have a public defender but I can never get ahold of him. He doesn't return my calls. Is there a chance I can get probation or some programs in lue of jail?

I don't know - it depends on the ages of your children, who will care for them. I see a fine (which will make your financial service even worse) and probation. I don't see jail time. I think the punishment will be that this will follow you for the rest of your life and locating employment will be very, very difficult.

The PD will get back to you in his/her own time frame.

In the meantime, don't panic, plan on probation and a fine, when you go to Court be very, very sincerely regretful (which it sounds like you are).