Causht Stealing, First Time Offender

[elephantlover]

My question involves criminal law for the state of: Maryland


I'm a 28 y/o female who was just caught shoplifting an item from a retail store with the value of 80.00 obviously I'm scared and confused. I've never been been inside a court house yet alone seen one. the LP said ill just have to pay for the civil demand but than comes two police and they gave me a citation. they told me as Long as I cooperate with the retailer and show up on my date I would get community service or something else (I didn't catch the other option) I'm waiting for both summons and civil demand in the mail now. I'm thinking of pleading guilty I was caught red handed and I heard the LP tell the cop they saw me on CCTV. I have a history of depression anxiety and self mutilation and this whole ordeal has triggered everything. I also realize I do have a problem and realised that as much as it was fun to get away without being caught there's a psychologically connection. anyway, I need this to end quickly before my bad coping habits spiral I feel like I replaced one habit with another. I've also been thinking of going to self help groups because I'm honestly afraid of going into a store and not being able to resist stealing.

I know it's my decision at the end of the day but what advice can you give me?

[Disagreeable]

Be prepared to pay hundreds in a civil demand. You really need a lawyer to attempt diversion, unless you do not care if you have a theft conviction to face for life.

[PTPD22]

It sounds like you need to seek professional mental health help. I have no idea where to refer you in MD. But, if you contact a local hospital, they can likely provide you with a referral to affordable assistance.

The shoplifting is likely to cost you financially. In addition to the civil demand (which may be several hundred dollars), there can be costs for any or all of the following: court fees, fines, community service fees, court mandated classes, etc. I would advise consulting with a criminal defense attorney to see if you can get your mental health issues documented (and show that you are actively working to overcome them) as possible mitigating circumstances in court.

[PandorasBox]

You can also find help at your local Community Mental Health.

You definitely need a lawyer.