I was caught shoplifting in Quebec, and the police was called and I was charged with shoplifting of values less than $5000. I was given the date to attend a detention centre and the date to go to the municiple.
I am 18 years old, and I have an absolutely clean record so far, I think I will find a lawyer to help me out.. What should I be aware of?
I'm hoping for an absolute diversion? Does this mean it will be off my records?

As well, I have a planned internship in another country, is it possible for a lawyer to defer my court hearing date until after the summer? For three months or so?

thanks, any help would be VERY appreciated.
Eugh I was so stupid. Definitely learned my lesson.

Im wondering, what are my changed of getting a diversion? Can someone explain to me what this exactly is?

A very good chance to get a diversion, and if you have an attorney it is very possible to get it continued

Ah, I should also add that I will be leaving Montreal on June 3rd, but my detention thing is on the 1st of July and court hearing the 20th. I wasn't planning to come back until later August. This is a very important trip for my future career

So you should hire your attorney tomorrow morning to let them try to get it continued. If they can't, you have no choice but to put off the trip

That's what I will be doing tomorrow, thank you!
Do you have any idea of strict the court is in terms of putting off the hearing to a later date?
As well, Im very confused about whether I should plead guilty and hope for a diversion program or say I am not guilty and fight the case.

Im hearing yes admit it, and complete the diversion, and your record will be clean as if it never happened
And no, don't ever please guilty. Any inputs?

Thanks!