Hello, I was charged with a petty theft crime by my former employer Abercrombie. 2 weeks ago. The Abercrombie's asset protection department ...

Question

Hello, I was charged with a petty theft crime by my former employer Abercrombie. 2 weeks ago. The Abercrombie's asset protection department confronted me, and had me wite a letter of confession. I was then given a misdemeanor ticket and told to appear in court in June. I am 18 and this is my first misdemeanor. I have never been in court before, and was advised to request a deferred prosecution or admission into a diversion program. I don't know how or when to request either of them, and don't know how to go about minimizing my charge.

Please & thank you for the help

Answer

The short answer is - on any criminal case, you absolutely need an attorney. There may be defenses to the charge - or to get you into an alternate disposition program if it is available in your area.

At least consult with a local criminal defense attorney to discuss things.

Answer

Mr Dane is correct but if you absolutely cannot afford a private. attorney

request that the court appoint a public defender to represent you. Do not do anything until you have spoken to the public defender.