My question involves criminal law for the state of: CONNECTICUT
I live in NY but I was caught shoplifting in CT. I am 18 years old and this is the first time I've ever been arrested. My court date is in 2 weeks and I definately need to not have this go on my record becuase I want to have a really good job one day, and I don't want this one stupid mistake to get in the way of that.
I was wondering if anyone could roughly estimate the likelihood that I would be able to get into some sort of diversion program or do something else that would prevent this from going on my record?
I plan to hire a lawyer, though I don't have a lot of money to spend on one. Will this help increase the chances of getting into a diversion program?
And before my court date, would it help at all to take an anti-theft class online, or do community service?
Thanks

