Will I be convicted? Professional answers preferred

Question

I was arrested for retail theft, but I didnt intend to steal, it was an accident. My lawyer worked out the theft school solution in which my case will be dismissed after i finish the program. Unfortunately, the teacher wouldnt let me in because i was five minutes late for the class. Now I do not have enough time to finish the program before i go back to court, so my lawyer told me that the worst case scenario is that I could be convicted and will be sent to jail for a year, but he will try to ask the judge to extend some time to finish the theft deterrent program. I'm just worried that I will be sentenced to jail or anything worse than going to theft school. I've been expected to finish this program for three months, the reason why i cant get it done is because they cant schedule me in time. Now will I be convicted?

Answer 1

talk to your lawyer, about having the classes scheduled at a time you can attend them.

otherwise, what IS making you late or miss the classes? maybe YOU should arrange your schedule to make sure you are able to attend.

Sounds like your lawyer isn't doing enough for you.

Answer 2

First of all, you need to get that class done.  Since you are doing this instead of going to jail, that should be you're #1 priority.  The judge will have little tolerance for a bunch of excuses so if your attorney can get an extension for you, be there early!! I could write a book with all the excuses I have heard in the 15 yrs I have been a PO, so I am sure the Judge has heard that excuse many times.  Even if it is true. Second, if you would happen to get convicted of retail theft, I highly doubt you will go to jail for a year unless you have a lengthy criminal history.  BUT...keep in mind, if you make the judge mad with missing that class, he may just give you some jail time.  There are lots of other options to sentence someone other than jail.  You may get probation, community service, home detention or anything else your county would have to offer.