Pc 487 (a)
I was caught for stealing stuff
worth $500. I was arrested and got
out on bail for $10,000. Now I have
a first court date on 06/16. What is
likely to happen there. Is it possible
that I can be arrested? Do I have to
serve Jail time? Please help..
I came from India on Jauary/09 and
I dont have any prior cases in USA.
I am a house wife and do nothing
for living, just dependent n my
husband.
Re: Pc 487 (a)
Since you posted bail you are not likely to be re-arrested on the underlying charge. However, if you do not show up for every one of your court appearances or if you commit another offense while out on bail, you could be arrested. Your first court date is called an arraignment. This is where the Court will advise you of your rights and the charges against you. You will be asked if you wish to have an attorney represent you and if you can afford to hire your own attorney. If you cannot afford to hire your own attorney, the Court will appoint a public defender to represent you. Since this is your first offense, jail time is only a remote possibility. Talk to an attorney about a possible "slow plea" or diversion. Also, it is likely your charge could be reduced to a misdemeanor petty theft. Again, talk to an experienced criminal law attorney before entering a plea.
Re: Pc 487 (a)
Since you posted bail you are not likely to be re-arrested on the underlying charge. However, if you do not show up for every one of your court appearances or if you commit another offense while out on bail, you could be arrested. Your first court date is called an arraignment. This is where the Court will advise you of your rights and the charges against you. You will be asked if you wish to have an attorney represent you and if you can afford to hire your own attorney. If you cannot afford to hire your own attorney, the Court will appoint a public defender to represent you. Since this is your first offense, jail time is only a remote possibility. Talk to an attorney about a possible "slow plea" or diversion. Also, it is likely your charge could be reduced to a misdemeanor petty theft. Again, talk to an experienced criminal law attorney before entering a plea.
Re: Pc 487 (a)
Since you posted bail you are not likely to be re-arrested on the underlying charge. However, if you do not show up for every one of your court appearances or if you commit another offense while out on bail, you could be arrested. Your first court date is called an arraignment. This is where the Court will advise you of your rights and the charges against you. You will be asked if you wish to have an attorney represent you and if you can afford to hire your own attorney. If you cannot afford to hire your own attorney, the Court will appoint a public defender to represent you. Since this is your first offense, jail time is only a remote possibility. Talk to an attorney about a possible "slow plea" or diversion. Also, it is likely your charge could be reduced to a misdemeanor petty theft. Again, talk to an experienced criminal law attorney before entering a plea.
