Shoplifting in Washington

My question involves criminal law for the state of: WA

In November I was caught shoplifting at the University Bookstore in Seattle. This is my first offense and have never stolen prior to this incident. I stole at $60 pair of Husky shorts. I had the money to pay for it but for some reason didn't feel obligated to do so and walked out of the store. Immediatly, bookstore security came outside, they were not police officers, and handcuffed me. I was led through the store and upstairs where I was detained. They asked for my Husky ID card and my Driver's License. They informed me I would be paying a civil demand of $260 which I paid just a few days ago. Before they could let me go, they had to call the PD and ask if I had any outstanding warrants, which I didn't. I was also asked to fill out a form that would be given to the judge in court, telling my side of the story and I had to sign forms saying I understood the penalties. I told the judge in the form honestly what happened, that I had the money to pay for the item, but didn't..and apologized deeply to the store and to myself for committing such a unthinkable crime. I am still waiting for my court date in the mail and have no idea what to expect. I am not sure if I should get a lawyer because I cannot afford one and am most likely pleading guilty. I was stupid enough to commit the crime so I should just accept the punishment. I will ask the judge about a diversion program and possible expungement so that it does not appear on my record or I may eventually get it off my record. I am scared I will be going to jail. I am willing to pay fines or community service but just am at a loss of what steps I should take to do so. The only other court I have been in was for a speeding ticket, i.e. traffic violation court. I have no idea if this is similar to that court atmosphere or not..although I was not an adult at the time. I am very scared..please let me know what steps I should take to reduce any fines and avoid jail..please help me in any way, I am so nervous!

Plead not guilty and ask for a public defender.

By the way, student loans and grants can also be effected.

i was caught shoplifting in the universtiy bookstore as well. yeah. i did it in november, too. I just got my court date letter and I am also really scared and nervous. I dont know what to do.

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Quoting jo_oj

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i was caught shoplifting in the universtiy bookstore as well. yeah. i did it in november, too. I just got my court date letter and I am also really scared and nervous. I dont know what to do.

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Plead not guilty and ask for a public defender.

By the way, student loans and grants can also be effected.

?? say that im not guilty?? but i know ive done wrong. what would a public defender do? and where do i ask for one? do i ask for one at the court?

That so you have tiem to talk to your Lawyer and arrange a plea deal. Unless of course a criminal record is appealing to you:rolleyes: