Shoplifting Class A

[jenni_w]

My question involves criminal law for the state of NY
My girlfriend has been acused for shoplifting petit larceny class A.
This happened at JCPenney and it was 300dlls for clothes. She is paying 5 times the mercancy to the store. This is her first and last time. She is going to court next week. Does she NEED a lawyer? Is she going to jail for that ? Please advice us, we are very concerned.
Thank you

[tc498]

If it's her 1st offense she prob not going to Jail.She should speak to lawyer to help her seek an acd (it will seal and dismiss the charge,if she stays out of trouble for 6 months).Maybe w. a lawyer get it reduce to disordely conduct, an acd or straight out dismisal would be better.

She should hire a lawyer b.c a conviction for shoplighting is gonna have lasting penalty,more then a fine or probation. For employment and other things. If she can't afford a lawyer she should get to a legal aid.Than ask them about an acd.