Home > Research Legal Advice > Criminal Defense > How should I talk to judge if want to plead not guilty??
Asked 7 months ago - Bronx, NY
FlagYesterday I caught from Macy's for shoplifting .. I have two girls and they were running around everywhere .. I don't conceal anything .. All merchandise was on my stroller .. My four year old was going out with her friend and i just wanted to stop her and I didnt cross the main gate . the lady came inside the glass door and told me follow her and without any hesitation I did the same . Then two three people came and made me sit inside a room and then accused me of shoplifting .Searched my purse couldn't find anything and then from stroller they picked all the merchandise .. They asked me to handover my kids to my friend and called cops and arrested me and made my finger printed and mug shot and gave me ticket and set me free I am on j2 visa right now .how should I behave on court
You should hire an attorney and have him speak for you.
Joseph A. Lo Piccolo, Esq.
Immediate Past President, Criminal Courts Bar Association 11'-12'
Hession Bekoff & Lo Piccolo
1103 Stewart Ave, Suite 200
Garden City, NY 11530
516-408-3666 (o) / 516-408-3833 (f)
Jlopiccolo@hbclaw.net
You are probably being charged with a class A misdemeanor, petit larcency.
You will need an attorney to defend you.
If one is not appointed for you or you wish to retain private counsel let me know. I am a former Assistant District Attorney in Bronx County .
When you appear in court you will see that most defendants dress casually. Distinguish yourself by dressing as if you were going for a job interview at a nice office and always act respectfully.
Sorry to hear. Do not go without an attorney, or ask that the matter be continued and get an attorney who is failiar with immigration and the consequences of crimes. This case can be dealt with, likely without impact on your current or future immigration status, but only if handled while thinking of the immigration issues. Good luck.
You need an attorney that is experienced in criminal defense, and has knowledge of the collateral immigration consequences any plea agreement may have. If you have no prior record or if the facts you present are videotaped you should be able to have the charges dismissed. Always be respectful in Court, and remember the burden of proof lies on the prosecutor. If you can afford ant attorney, hire onej will assign you one. I have experience handling these types of cases. You can call me at 917-405-4545. Good Luckimmediately. otherwise prove to the court you are indigent and they
You should speak respectfully. Let the judge know you want a lawyer if you don't already have one. Make sure your lawyer is familiar with any immigration consequences of the charge against you.
You also may get a "Civil Demand Letter" from Macy's' Lawyers. Read the link below before talking with them.
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--- Talking to the Police - Advice from Lawyers and Police
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http://addbalance.com/miranda_rights.htm
-- Civil Demand Letters - Shoplifting and Retail Theft - Madison (Dane County) Wisconsin Criminal Defense Lawyer's web page --
http://addbalance.com/civildemand.htm
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If something I say disagrees with what your own lawyer is telling you, you should rely on your lawyer who is familiar with you, your entire case, the local courts and practices.
There may very well be merit to your defense or position in this type of situation. However, there are hardly sufficient details for an attorney to provide you with some path to follow. It is imperative that ALL of the facts in a particular situation be examined. No conclusion can be drawn from the communication that you have provided. Those facts should not be put on a public Internet site.
Most questions are just better handled by an attorney familiar with the procedures of the courts in your area. Few, if any, legal matters should be handled via Internet communication. At best, the responders on this site can give you a few hints and guidance. To deal with a legal problem, nothing is better than to consult with a lawyer who will give you some time and advice. If you cannot afford an attorney, there should be agencies in your area that can provide discounted, or even free, legal services.
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