Shoplifting in New Mexico
My question involves criminal law for the state of: New Mexico
About a month ago I shoplifted something that was 8 dollars from kohls. They had me sign something that said I couldn't come back and they called the cops. I just got a letter in the mail saying I have a court date in two weeks. I can't plead "not guilty" because I already admitted to doing it, and I can't afford a lawayer. The thing I'm most concerned about is going to jail. The police officers said it would be treated like a parking ticket.
It drives me crazy that I have no idea what's going to happen and I just need an idea of what will probably happen in this curcumstance.
Re: Shoplifting in New Mexico
You can plead not guilty. You can (and should) also talk to a lawyer and see what resolutions might be available that could allow you to avoid a conviction.
Re: Shoplifting in New Mexico
MK is correct.
Pleading not guilty isn't a lie... it is a ticket to the game.
If you plead guilty, there will be no trial and the judge will hand down your sentence. You want an attorney to help you there.
So, go to court. Plead not guilty and ask for an attorney.
Ask your attorney for sentencing possibilities that would allow this to drop off your record after the successful completion of your sentence.
That sentence will most likely include a fine, some community service and probation.
I have never heard of a first offender to this type of crime going to jail.