17yrold caught shopliftin, first time offense. How should he/she plead? Consequences?

[Kgulled]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)?

 

[TigerD]

There is a lot that goes into making that decision. And it can only be made by the person facing the charges.

DC

 

[stealth2]

Please retype your post and hit Submit, rather than Preview.

Based on just what there is, please accept that this is likely NOT the first time your 17yo has stolen. You (s/he) should understand that they will probably be banned from that store (including any other locations and possibly the entire complex) for a long, long time. It may adversely effect his/her employment opportunities. Whether it be summer-type jobs, work-study in college, or post-HS employment. Really - few employers want a thief working for them, especially when there are so many available options in this economy.

 

[FlyingRon]

Never plead anything other than not guilty EVER unless you have specific legal counsel as to the implications of doing otherwise.

As far as the rest goes, we'll really need to know the state and the other circumstances.