If my 17 year old daughter was arrested for shoplifting, do I need to hire a lawyer?
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If my 17 year old daughter was arrested for shoplifting, do I need to hire a lawyer?
This is her first offense.
Asked on May 4, 2015 under Criminal Law, Georgia
Answers:
B.H.F., Member, Texas State Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 9 years ago | Contributor
Considering that she is such a young offender and it's a relatively minor charge, neither the judge or prosecution are likely to "throw the book" at your daughter. However, it would still be prudent to hire an attorney because you want to make sure that whatever plea she enters does not interfere with any long term plans she may or could have. For example, if she gets a final conviction, it could interfer with scholarship or employment opportunities. When looking for an attorney, don't just hire the first one you meeting. Many will offer free consultations, so meet with more than one so that you find one that is actually interested in your daughter's case and that you are comfortable with. You want to focus on attorneys that have experience in the jurisdiction where your daughter was charged and who, preferrably, has experience with expunctions. If possible, your daughter needs to shoot for a resolution which gives her the opportunity to clear up her record after everything is said and done.
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