Legal Question in Criminal Law in Ohio

I asked a question on 5/9/12 about shoplifting at kohls which was answered by Eric Willison (spelling). The answer was detailed and helpful, but I also have a couple questions I forgot.

I do not have the money for an attorney right now, so should I get a public assigned by the court?

Should I plead guilty or not guilty? They don't have the proof on camera, but I did pull the item out of my purse after they showed me the tags.

Is there anyway of knowing when I will get the letter from their store? I haven't received it yet, but I plan to just pay and get it over with.

One more... Is there anything specific I should tell the judge or say to try and help me out?

I have never done something like this or even been in trouble. I am so extremely nervous and crossing my fingers for a good result. I just want toget it over with.

Thank you so much for your help.


Asked on 5/14/12, 6:00 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Eric Willison Eric Eastman Willison

In Ohio, of you don't have money for an attorney, then you should contact the public defender's office. They will put you through their intake program to see if you qualify for their assistance. The public defender is very good at swinging deals when you don't have much of a case on the facts. Without having seen all the facts I can't really tell you if your case is strong or weak, but if you admitted that you stole the item and pulled the item out when they accused you, then the prosecutor may have some arrows in his quiver.

But as I said, there may be diverson programs in the area that a first time offender can get into and the public defender would know all about this but make sure that you ask. Don't plead guilty without speaking with a public defender and discussing the possibility of diversion.

Read more
Answered on 5/14/12, 7:43 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Criminal Law questions and answers in Ohio