I was recently apprehended on a shoplifting case (first offence). The merchandise amount was of $90. I have now received a communication from City Attorney Office about pretrial diversion program. In this regard I had few questions: 1. The pretrial program appears to be of 11 months but I may have to leave US within next 3-4 months ( I am on L2 dependent visa). In such a case will the probation office allow me to serve for 3-4 months and on good conduct drop charges against me? 2. I have a child 2 yrs old to take care and my spouse works Mon-Fri (8:00 am to 5:00 pm). In such case will the pretrial program allow me to attend the program and subsequent volunteer service during weekends? 3. Based on my issue do you recommend that I apply for court trial instead of pretrial diversion program?

Regards,

-- anusha (anubha_ashi@yahoo.com), February 22, 2003

Answers

You need to speak to a criminal attorney int he city where your case is being heard. A local attorney would be able to answer your questions about local diversion/probation procedure.

-- Michael Boyle (mboyle@immigrantcenter.com), February 24, 2003.