Michigan Retail Fraud 2nd Degree First Offense

My question involves criminal law for the state of: MI

Ok me and someone else were caught shoplifting with about $240ish worth...Most items were found in my bag but i wasn't the one putting everything in there...

We are both 21 and This is my FIRST time getting into trouble, i have a CLEAN record and was wondering what may happen at court...

I've been readin alot about this online and through other peoples situations and know that it is a misdemeanor in the 2nd degree....

We were caught after leaving the store and pulled over by the police thats when they found the items in the bag...

Would telling teh judge most items were placed in my bag during the time we were in the car help with anything, the other person is willing to be honest and let the judge know they were put in my bag in the car...

Im REALLY nervous and made a BIGMISTAKE and def. learned from this...I dont think i can afford a lawyer...what may happen at court??

If you can afford to shoplift and put the rest of your professional life in jeopardy, you can afford a lawyer.
Get a second job, some free consultations, and hire one.

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Would telling teh judge most items were placed in my bag during the time we were in the car help with anything, the other person is willing to be honest and let the judge know they were put in my bag in the car...

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The judge has heard it all before

You were a willing partner to the crime, and will be charged as such

A lawyer would be able to explore alternatives you cannot

Your "best" option is finding an Attorney and asking about Diversion or other options that might be available

Thank for the reply's..

Can someone explain to me what exactly happens at the arraignment...and who I get to talk to about my case with and what not..like do i get to talk to the prosecutor..what happens, what do I do?

I'm so ashamed of myself...Will someone from that store be at court too??

:(

At 1st appearence you will be asked to enter a plea. If you plead guilty its over and judge will likely sentence you. Not recommended. Enter no plea or not guilty and it you cannot afford Attorney request public defender. Your case will be continued and you will be given instructions on how to contact Public defender

Thanks again!

So on average how long is it until the next court day, I know its not always the same but is it usually not too long after the arraignment??

And will I be talking to the prosecutor at the arraignment?

The DA might request talking to you before court but I would suggest you not do that. The continuance could a few weeks to a month

Why wouldnt you suggest me talking to the DA before court? Sorry for all the questions..I'm just really afraid and NEVER been in ANY trouble in my life i made a HUGE mistake and dont know anything about this type of situation..

Also will someone from that store be at court too??

Because you wont know if deal offered is best for you or DA!

I'm still kind of confused...

Can the DA try making a deal with me???

Is there any way this whole thing can be done in one day?

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Quoting bigmistake0

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I'm still kind of confused...

Can the DA try making a deal with me???

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Yes but that would not be wise

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Quoting bigmistake0

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Is there any way this whole thing can be done in one day?

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Yes plead guilty take whatever sentence judge gives you. Not wise either