Are First Offender programs only offered to people 16 and under? I'll be 18 pretty soon after my court date Mar 20. . I was caught shoplifting $114 worth of items (I have a clean record)... I was thinking about getting a criminal defense lawyer but friends who have been in trouble with the law tell me that I would save alot of money if I just appointed a lawyer..Ok my question. . . Is it possible to ask my appointed lawyer if I could get into a diverson program? Considering my case how much you think a lawyer would charge me if I decide to get a criminal denfese lawyer? Could I join a diversion program before being convicted to avoid a criminal record?. .In addition, a friend of mine told me she was charged for assault at 16, and now she'll be turning 18 and her record will be expunge..Is that not the First offenders program? Iam so confused.. I've never been in trouble like this.. please respond I'd appreciate it...

