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But if I plead not guilty, then I'll have to go through the scary process of getting a lawyer/PD, going in front of a jury, and just... the thought of all that frightens me beyond belief. I don't want to make it anything dramatic. I'm not even close to being fully aware of how this will all pan out. I would just like this to be quiet and over.
It's your decision. But I STRONGLY recommend that you discuss your options with a lawyer before you decide. Many will provide free or low cost consultations.
I know you want it over it.
And as another person said - it is great that you want to accept responsibility for your actions.
By pleading Guilty, you give the judge no option but to sentence you for Retail Fraud, and there is no chance of a plea agreement to a lesser charge. Think which looks better on a job application when stating that yes, you have a Misdemeanor on your record: Retail Fraud or Disorderly Person? Consider that before deciding to just plea guilty....
Is there a chance that the judge will appreciate my honesty if I plead guilty and not slam me too hard? It's my first time getting in any sort of trouble, and there wasn't anything particularly bad about my case, just your usual run-of-the-mill idiot shoplifting.
I'm sorry. I know you want this over with.
If you plead guilty, the judge's hands are pretty much tied as to the sentence, and can't offer you a plea deal as the prosecutor could offer you through a lawyer or public defender.
BTW...are you a minor, or 20 or under? You might qualify for a Diversion Program or something that would remove it from your record after a period of time.
My friend and I are both 18. I turned 18 less than a month ago, and we both have clean records. I'm sincerely hoping for a diversion program... thank you for understanding.
You're welcome.
Definitely talk with a lawyer. Ask how you go about getting either a Diversion Program or a Deferred Sentence.
Definitely follow the advice that Pandorasbox and others have given you here.
Off topic: How do you send personal messages to other members?
I wanted to send Pandorasbox a personal message, because she changed my life. And I want to thank her for it.
Thanks. I'll send you a message so you can message me back.