Legal Question in Criminal Law in Wisconsin

You seriously need to retain an attorney who is experienced in that particular court system. Many lawyers will allow you someone in your situation to pay in installments. If the case is in circuit court, you can also try to get a public defender free of charge. Until you can get a lawyer, you should plead "not guilty" and ask the judge for more time. This conviction can also lead to a civil lawsuit for punitive damages in addition to the value of the merchandise. If you have a clean record and good grades and make a civil settlement with the store, it may be possible for the attorney to work out some sort of hold open agreement for you which will not go on your record. It may also be possible to work out an agreement to have any conviction removed following several years of law abiding behavior, community service, etc. My comments in this online forum are offered for public educational purposes only and are not legal advice, nor do they create any attorney/client relationship between us. However, I may be able to formally represent you if you contact my Racine office and make arrangements to retain me. I also represent clients throughout WI.