Shoplifting in Michigan

[hopehely]

My question involves criminal law for the state of: MI

Hi, I was caught for shoplifting a pair of gloves ($18).
I'm a 17 years old girl, a green card holder (thinking abot applying for the citizenship) no previous records.
I was handed down to the police, was told I'll get a court date.

It's been about 2 weeks, i've done a lot of researches to get this off on my record.

So far, I've found about Diversion program.
I'm thinking about using a PD.
Here are the questions.

1> What are the percentage of me, getting into a diversion program with using a PD?

2> will the diversion program take this off from my record completely?

3> I'm planned to be at some extracurricular activities from June 3-7 and June 20-25. I will be out of state in these dates. Will my court case be done by these dates? I haven't got my court date yet.

4> I also read about 7411 or hyta. What are they?

5> What should I expect at court?

6> I really don't remember what happened between me and the store manager, but I know I accepted my theft. Having this, is it still OK for me to plead 'not guilty' to get the PD?

7> How much will I need to pay for a PD?
My parents told me to pay for everything but they don't let me get a job.
As I mentioned above, I do some extracurricular activities and when I get the prizes, I get the money. That's the money my parents are talking about.

I've read that when I ask for a PD, they'll decide whether my income qulifies for it. Will they go over my parents of mine? Apparently, I live with my mom only, our economic situation isn't great. I believe I qualify for school's reduced price lunch program.

so how much will I need to pay?

8> Will this affect me from applying from college scholarships?

9> I live in Washtenaw county. Where will my trial be? I read one saying it was in Chicago, Please say that's not going to happen to me.

[Mr. Knowitall]

1. It depends on your county. Diversion programs aren't available everywhere.
2. No.
3. Maybe.
4. 7411 is for first-time drug offenders. HYTA is for first time offenders between the ages of 17 and 21, and provides for a deferred sentence and sealed disposition if you complete probation. For more details, read the dozens of threads in this forum discussing those laws.
5. Read this.
6. Yes, or you can 'stand mute' and the court will enter a not guilty plea.
7. That varies by county.
8. If you are applying for colleges that ask about your criminal history, having a criminal history could affect your applications.
9. Washtenaw County.

[hopehely]

Both diversion and HYTA are available in my county.
I couldn't find a lawyer who would answer me fully for free.
My court date is next week and there are few questions.

1> I know when I plea not guilty, I can ask the judge for a PD.
But how do I ask for a PD if I plea guilty?

2> Could I do this?
I go to court early, ask the clerk for the petition for HYTA, fill it out.
When my name is called, give it to the judge.
Is it possible?

[PandorasBox]

If you can't find a lawyer in Washtenaw County who will give you a free consult...try just north in Livingston....although I will not provide names.