What should I do to be prepared for a criminal charges if I’m not guilty?
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What should I do to be prepared for a criminal charges if I’m not guilty?
I have been dealing with this case for the past 7 months and have just now gotten a criminal summons for Petit Larceny and Criminal Trespass 2. This case is built on 2 people’s statements when 1 of these statements was giving by the person who actually went into the building. The property that was “taken” was mine originally that I allowed the person pressing charges to borrow. This incident took place at a state university townhouse. I am a State Trooper’s son, in college and have a 100% clean record. I now need to know what I should do? I can’t afford an attorney.
Asked on December 2, 2011 under Criminal Law, New York
Answers:
FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
The best thing that you should do to prepare for the upcoming criminal proceeding against you that you assert you are innocent is to hire yourself an attorney. I suggest that you borrow money to retain one and enter into some payment plan for paying the lawyer. The last thing that you want to do is go to court on a matter that you are innocent on ill prepared where you believe the charges against you are unwarranted.
Another option is to contact the public defender's office to see if you qualify for appointed representation. You should also consult with your father.
Absent the above, I suggest that you get your witnesses in order and documentation showing that the property was yours.
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