If You Are Caught Stealing, Do You Go to Municipal or State Court
My question involves criminal law for the state of: Colorado
My court summons says Boulder County Court is where I'm to appear. Off to the side on the summons printed not written it says 'state criminal'. Does this mean I'm going to 'state court' and will that impact what will happen in court?
I am going to court for shoplifting $200. The only thing I've done before is MIP, for which I completed a diversion program in 2006. I'm not sure if I'm still a first time offender or not because of that.
From the information I've gathered my current game plan is to go to the arraignment and plead not guilty. I would be hoping for the plea offer to do a class + community service and then have the charges dismissed after probation. If not offered i would opt for a public defender. Is this a good plan?
I can't tell if the lawyers I've contacted are trustworthy or not. $500-2000 in fees and differing statements about what my situation really is.
Re: Municipal or State Court
If your court summons shows you have to go to the county courthouse, then you are most likely being charged at the state level. However, if you're to appear at the Boulder City Court (the same one that does traffic tickets and such) then you're most likely charged at the municipal level.
Re: Municipal or State Court
As for lawyer vs Public Defender - if you can afford a lawyer, you must hire a lawyer. Public Defenders are for those who cannot afford to hire counsel, and financial issues must be proven.
Please note: $200 is not first time shoplifting, it is first time CAUGHT shoplifting. The amount will be considered by the prosecutor and judge.
Since you've already had one Diversion program, you likely do not qualify for another one. But discuss that with a lawyer.
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As for the lawyers you have spoken with, hire the one you feel best about. $500 is very cheap for a shoplifting case. I would consider who is more experienced, how many years practicing law....