Q: What to expect and do in court for shoplifting arrest in MA?
I, along with two friends, were caught shoplifting at a Target in Fenway, totaling about $1,500 in merchandise. We were arrested and taken to Nashua Jail, processed, and then released on personal recognizance bail. I am 19, and my friends are 18 and 21. We have no prior charges. Our court hearing is scheduled for tomorrow at 8:30 AM at Roxbury Court. We haven't received any documents about charges or potential penalties, nor have we consulted a lawyer. I'm uncertain about what to expect in court, possible outcomes, and what we should say. What steps should I take to prepare, and what might happen to us in this situation?
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A:
When you appear in court, you’ll likely be asked to enter a plea of "guilty," "not guilty," or "no contest." Since this is your first offense, it's a good idea to plead "not guilty" if you're unsure about the charges or penalties. The judge will schedule a pretrial conference if your case is more complex or if you're considering negotiating a plea. You’ll also be given the chance to speak with a public defender or hire a lawyer if you haven’t already.
Expect to see a prosecutor, who represents the state, present the charges. You won’t necessarily be sentenced at the first appearance, as this is often a procedural meeting to understand the charges and set a future court date. If you decide to hire an attorney, they can help you navigate the legal process and possibly reduce the penalties or help you explore options like diversion programs.
Prepare for your court date by being on time, dressing neatly, and being respectful to everyone in the courtroom. You’ll want to avoid speaking unless the judge or your attorney asks you to. After your first appearance, you’ll have the opportunity to gather more information about the charges, and your attorney can advise you on the best course of action. It’s also possible that, depending on the case, you might face restitution or other consequences.
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