Hi there,

I had been caught stealing shoes worth $119.99 from sears store. I have been accused and I have to show up in court after some weeks. This is my first offence. I have not been caught or offended for anything is past. I have some question in my mind, and I would be grateful if someone gives me correct advice and guidence:

1) Do I need a lawyer?
2) Can I be send to imprisonment?
3) Do it affect my credit check and if yes, then from which date i.e from the day I made a mistake or from the day of my court hearing? And for how long?
4) Is there anything I can do before my court dates?
5) please give me contact of any lawyer who can help me out?

Please give me suggestion and advice... I need it badly.

I would always use an attorney if I go to court for even a parking ticket.

No you will not go to jail

It does not effect your credit report, but can have a effect if they run your credit and criminal history if it gets on your criminal history

Normally what happens you will get an first offender type program where you do probation, pay fine, pay back the money and the charges are basically dropped and no record is keep

Agree with above, however you could try first court appearance without a lawyer as you may be offered diversion program which means basically that the charges will be dropped. If for some reason you are not offered this diversion you would be given disclosure and allowed time to find a lawyer before your next court appearance.

You will get duty counsel at the court house. I think you will qualify for diversion but the duty counsel can telll you more