I switched tags on a Walmart item and got stopped at the exit. The security showed me a video of me scanning a code, and then they asked me to tell the truth or they’d call the police. I explained what happened, and the cops gave me a citation for theft under $100. If I plead not guilty, what happens? They couldn’t even find the other barcode after scanning me three times, so IDK if this is a misunderstanding or what. Anyone been through something like this? What’s the best move?
Yeah, I had something similar happen, and I went with pleading not guilty. It opened up options for negotiating a deal. In my case, they offered community service instead of a conviction. Could be worth considering .
@Lucas
Same, I got a reduced charge after pleading not guilty. It was a bit nerve-wracking at first, but it worked out. Worth a try if you don’t want this on your record.
I think pleading guilty and asking for community service might be an option too. It could help minimize the impact on your record, but it’s really about weighing the risk. If it’s your first offense, they might be lenient.
@Misha
That makes sense. But do you think pleading guilty means a bigger fine, or will it be the same one they gave me?
@Misha
It could vary depending on the judge, but the fine might stay around the same. You’d probably get some extra penalties like court costs or something, but it’s less risky than going to trial, I guess.
If you decide to plead not guilty, they’ll probably show you the evidence (like the video) at some point. It’s called discovery. It’s important to see what they have so you can prepare your defense.
Lopez said:
If you decide to plead not guilty, they’ll probably show you the evidence (like the video) at some point. It’s called discovery. It’s important to see what they have so you can prepare your defense.
Wait, do you get to see the evidence before trial? Like, at the first court date?
Lopez said:
If you decide to plead not guilty, they’ll probably show you the evidence (like the video) at some point. It’s called discovery. It’s important to see what they have so you can prepare your defense.
Yes, you can request it after pleading not guilty. The court has to share all the evidence they have before the trial, so you get a chance to review it.
Just so you know, you don’t need a lawyer for the first appearance, but it could be really helpful to have one for negotiating a deal or just for advice. They can guide you through your options.
Mika said:
Just so you know, you don’t need a lawyer for the first appearance, but it could be really helpful to have one for negotiating a deal or just for advice. They can guide you through your options.
Oh, so you can just show up by yourself if you’re not ready for a lawyer yet?
Mika said:
Just so you know, you don’t need a lawyer for the first appearance, but it could be really helpful to have one for negotiating a deal or just for advice. They can guide you through your options.
Yeah, but having one could help a lot if you want to avoid making mistakes early on. They can guide you on how to respond or what offers to accept.
In your case, it sounds like there was a misunderstanding with the barcode, so pleading not guilty might be your best shot. If they couldn’t even find the other barcode, it could help your case a lot .