Q: I’m going to represent myself in a petty theft case today. My plans to just plead guilty. Anything I should say or do?
Any advice on how to go about this? I’ve never represented myself before and would like anybody’s opinion ASAP please
A: There is no such thing as a petty theft. The theft charge is either a misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor or felony. But no theft charges start out as a "petty" theft. I would tell you that a theft conviction is going to have long term consequences for you - especially for employment and housing purposes. I would advise against just running into court and pleading guilty without speaking with an attorney first.
A:
Based on the facts that you provided (that you are a 1-time offender charged with a petty misdemeanor) you won't face jail time. You can just state you plead guilty to take accountability for your, establish a factual basis for the guilty plea (explain to the judge why you what happened and why you are pleading guilty). The judge will accept your plea, possibly charge you a fine, and you will be on your way.
It can be very scary for someone who has never been charged with a crime, especially if you are a non-citizen. I am not sure what your immigration status is (if you are a citizen or a green hard holder), but regardless, you will fall under the "petty misdemeanor exception) and will not face removal.
Hang in there. I hope this helps.
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