Shoplifting from Sears, in Central New York

[likemikey69]

Hello everybody,

I just wanted some advice for my girlfriend. She was with one of her friends at the mall and her friend shoved a bottle of tester perfume in her pocket that was retailed at $40. First off, they are both 16 years old.This was at Sears. After a few seconds after she took it, her friend goes "psh" and shows it to my girlfriend, my girlfriend looked at her like what the hell? and then was stupid enough to let her friend slip it in her bag. well, story of my life is that they got caught. So anyways, my girlfriend had court today, and the judge stated that if they find her guilty she is applicable for up to a year in jail and three years in probation. He suggested she gets a lawyer which she may or may not be able to have the free one appointed to her due to her mom having a full time job and owning her home (mortgage payments still though). Now, I don't think I would allow her to have a free lawyer as I feel that they won't try much on her side as a lawyer that I would pay to get her out of some of the trouble that shes in. Please let me know any and all advice possible as I need to help my girlfriend out because I love her to death and I'm trying to do everything I can for her.

Thank You,
Mike

[panther10758]

The best advice was given her by the judge find a criminal defense Attorney. Once she does that she can discuss options like possible diversion if available

[lps]

Was this her "first time"? Or does she have any priors?