Caught Stealing Merchandise Worth $3.50

**holly37** · 08-13-2007, 11:24 AM

I am 18 years old and I got arrested a few days ago for stealing a $3.50 ring from Claire's Boutique in Alabama. Other than a couple of speeding tickets, I have never done anything else to get myself in any kind of trouble. I do not have any money, because I am moving out this week, so I am very worried about the fines I am going to have to pay. Also, a couple of people have been stressing to me the importance of getting an attorney to get this off my record so I will not have problems getting another job in the future. I don't think I can afford an attorney... well, I can't afford anything right now. I can't even repay my friend that bailed me out. Can anyone tell me about how much money I will need and the steps I need to take to make this turn out better for me?

**Mr. Knowitall** · 08-14-2007, 06:44 AM

Check with the court to see if you qualify for a court-appointed lawyer. If you want to know how much criminal defense lawyers in your area charge, call a few law offices and ask what their fees would be.

**holly37** · 08-17-2007, 07:28 AM

Thanks. I think my court costs will be about $150 or something close to that. Do you have an idea about how much I will be fined for my felony? I believe I was told that it could be anywhere from $0 to $1000. Based on the price of the stolen merchandise and that I have never been in any kind of trouble before, what would be your guess?

**seniorjudge** · 08-17-2007, 07:36 AM

Q: Based on the price of the stolen merchandise and that I have never been in any kind of trouble before, what would be your guess?

A: Why was this a felony?