I was caught in a sting in Arlington back in January. I can’t afford my own attorney so I’ll have to go with a court appointed attorney. Only thing on my background is a Class C misdemeanor from nearly ten years ago. What are the chances that my court appointed attorney could get the charges deferred or am I looking at jail time?
Originally Posted by mrunbelievable
Assuming what you stated is correct, given your criminal history, I would think you are excellent candidate for deferred adjudication. However, given the size of the DA’s office, Tarrant county probably has a Pre-Trial Diversion program. If you pay a fine (large!) and complete community service and classes, then the charge will be dismissed. This should be your target.
Get with your court-appointed attorney and put together a “good guy” packet. Get friends, family, and employers to write letters of support explaining how you are great person and should be given a second chance. As long as you have steady employment and a clean record, I don’t see why you would be denied a shot at PTD. In my opinion, the worst that can happen is deferred adjudication. (For reasons I won’t explain, I don’t see a judge giving you straight probation or, god forbid, prison.)
This is a difficult and scary situation, but there is hope. Chin up buddy! You’ll weather the storm.