Went to Court, Now What

i posted a lil while ago talking how i was goin 2 court on a frist offence at macys..
charged with 484(a) / 490.5(a) petty theft/retail.
and of course the loss prevention office payment..

so i went to court, he read my case and asked how i wanted 2 plea.
i said guilty
then he told me hes going to schedule another date and for me 2 get a public defender and to rethink my desicion and come back the 1st...

what does this mean exactly? like are they goin 2 drop the charges or what?

and how exactly do i go about getting a public defender... im so clue less...

help?

In general, the court wants to make sure that you have had an opportunity to discuss and understand your case before accepting a guilty plea. This is why he/she wanted you to speak with the public defender about your case. Whether or not there was something about your case in particular that prompted the court to continue your case can't be said without more information and a lengthier discussion about your situation. Furthermore, I would imagine that if the charges were going to be dismissed it would have been done while in court instead of setting a new court date. Nonetheless, continuing the case is of no harm to you given that you are not in jail.

As for the public defender, they are appointed by the court. I am surprised the court didn't have you speak with them while there. In any case, you can ask to speak with the public defender at your next court appearance. The court will have you fill out a financial declaration to see if you qualify for the services of the public defender.

You do not have to wait until court to get some advice. Most private criminal defense attorneys provide free case evaluations that can answer many of your questions so that you are more prepared when you go to court.

I hope this was helpful to you.

Hi,

I just had a free consultation with a lawyer today for my case (1st offense, Retail Theft, 3rd Degree). He told me to "Stand Mute". That would get me time with the public defender. And likely lead to a plea deal (community service).

Hope this helps, I know I am disappointed in myself and scared to death.

Best I can say is to find a Criminal Lawyer in your area who offers a Free Consultation. I feel better having spoken to one. My finances are not so I can hire a lawyer, but perhaps you can.