I am so grateful to this site, because it has given me the opportunity to at least tell a soul about this. I'm a stay at home mum of 4 and at the tail end of last month, out of desperation and sheer stupidity, I tried to take some things totalling $130 at Sears. When they caught me, they called the police and I was charged and summoned to court last Tuesday. I didn't get a lawyer because I couldn't afford one, couldn't let my husband or anyone I know ever find out about this. I was so scared. I read that since the amount is less than 200, it is a misdemeanor and I may get away with a fine. But in court on Tuesday, oh my goodness! Everyone came with a lawyer and cases were being dismissed and things were looking good until I was called. The store manager at Sears and about 3 LP officers and the police who arrested me were all present and the judge adviced me to get a lawyer. He initially gave me the option to go without one and I took the option and was about to plead guilty but he stopped me and adviced me to get a lawyer, so I was given the number to the public defender whom I've already contacted. Now I am so terrified. I have pleaded with the store manager and the police officer and told them how jail time or a criminal can ruin my life. But they won't budge. I am so scared, i don't know what to expect. Does anyone have an idea what happens in a case like this in Virginia? It is my first offence and I'm 27. What can I do? How come no one believes in giving people a second chance anymore. I am so scared, confused and sick to my stomach. Please help!

