First Offense Shoplifting

i was just charged with theft under 5000 for takin about 28$ of mech. from the superstore. i have been told i have fingerprintin and court apr. in april i need to kno if i should get a lawyer and if i will go to jail? this is my first criminal offensnce ever and i am 21 in bc im wondering what i have in store for me. no doubtably i am remorsful and i am now banned from ther store i have to write a letter asking to shop there still can anyone please give me some advice?:wallbang:

It is always advisable to get an attorney when you are looking at being charged criminally.

You didn't mention your US state, but, jail is unlikely (since this is your first offense). You should expect to get probation, fines (criminal and civil), and possibly have to take some classes.

You may also be able to get into a diversion program through the courts. If you are indigent, you may want to request a public defender when you go to court to enter your plea. They will know the laws, the rules, a fair sentence, a fair plea agreement, and they will be able to direct you on your next steps through a treatment program.

do i ask for a legal rep when i go to court or the week before when i go to get fingerprinted? i am also not in the us im in BC should i be lookin now for a legal rep when court isnt until apr2\march 26(fingerprinting)

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Quoting leeolalee

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do i ask for a legal rep when i go to court or the week before when i go to get fingerprinted? i am also not in the us im in BC should i be lookin now for a legal rep when court isnt until apr2\march 26(fingerprinting)

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This link will provide some information:

http://www.cba.org/BC/public_media/criminal/202.aspx

I can't answer how your court system works up there. Perhaps Google for a Canadian legal site for more specific answers.