Legal Question in Criminal Law in Georgia

Live in Georgia. My 17 year old daughter was arrested for misdemeanor shoplifting. Fist offense. She's a good kid who made a horrible mistake. Two questions. I was told by one of the officers that we didn't necessarily need a lawyer as she will appear in magistrate court. The officer knows the judge well and told us to expect community service, "anti shop lifting class", fine and probation. Once all that is done her record would be expunged . So, my question is do you think it is necessary to have a lawyer? Also, with it summer we were planning a trip to Mexico. What would happen if the court date was during that time? Could we get the court date changed?


Asked on 5/31/17, 5:27 am

4 Answers from Attorneys
Glen Ashman Ashman Law Office also dba Glen Ashman Attorney

If the officer saidwhatyou said, he committed a serious crime in attempting to practice law withoit a license. His suggestion could also make your child unemployable for life, with a theft conviction. What a stupid proposal! Avoiding jail is nice, but a first offender wants to avoid a plea and attempt pretrial diversion or other remedies to avoid the stain of a conviction (Georgia no longer has expungments - so theofficer REALLY got that wrong - the procedures now are very different fro when he mislearned things). Of course you get her a lawyer! As for resets, some courts will and somecourts won't, but her trip to Mexico is likely a violation of her bond. Your lawyer can work those things out.

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Answered on 5/31/17, 7:15 am
Lawrence Lewis Lawrence Lewis, P.C.

She will be in Magistrate Court. but what happens IF the judge is having a bad day and decides not to give her community service, especially when there is no lawyer present. Do you know what to do then? As for the change in court dates, that is a very dangerous game to play without an attorney. She has been directed to appear in court. Do you know who is authorized to grant you a continuance, since you will not speak directly to the judge. Sometimes it is not better to DIY (Do it yourself).

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Answered on 5/31/17, 7:45 am
Ralph Villani VILLANI LAW FIRM

Glen and Lawrence are absolutely correct

I can speak with you (1/4 to 1/2 hour free advice) if you FAX me all paperwork to 770.979.5190 with cover letter with all of your contact information and giving your permission to look into this matter - call my office to let them know you FAXed those papers and cover letter to me and I will call you back after I reviewed same (I will be in Court all day tomorrow and part of Friday so, today is best - until 630pm)

Good luck and God Bless

Ralph (770.985.6773 - answered 24x7x365 - answered by a live person at all times)

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Answered on 5/31/17, 8:13 am
Scott Riddle Law Office of Scott B. Riddle, LLC

I will repeat you need a good criminal lawyer. As solicitations are not allowed by this site, you will want an lawyer who understands how to honor and comply with ethical and professional rules so don't respond to lawyers who use this site to troll and solicit. Do your homework and get a reputable and professional criminal lawyer in your area.

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Answered on 5/31/17, 12:23 pm


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