Resources for Low-Income or Disabled Person Charged With a Crime

[blindfear]

My question involves criminal law for the state of: NY

My sister shoplifted years ago, was charged and received six months probation and no criminal record. Idiot shoplifted again recently, charged again (155.25 NY petit larceny) and has a hearing date.

She's disabled and on a fixed income (not an excuse for doing something so stupid, just that she can't afford a lawyer). Is there any resource she can turn to for help?

Even if the first time didn't result in criminal record, I'm sure she's in for trouble. I'm so scared for her.

[viol8te]

If she can't afford a lawyer, the court will provide her with one. She'll have to show proof of indigency. Being that she is disabled, that should be no problem for her. Her social security, public aid communnity aid, whatever. Anything that she has that proves that she is on a fixed income needs to be shown in court.