Three Rivers, TX Criminal Defense Law Firms & Lawyers

The punishment range for a theft of $400 is a Class B misdemeanor. That carries with it a possible punishment of up to 6 months in jail and/or a $2,000 fine, or a combination of both. Given your age and lack of prior criminal history, there may be some things your lawyer can negotiate on your behalf to ensure this doesn't end up on your permanent criminal record. You are right; it was dumb. But, the right attorney can get you through it.

Based on what you wrote, it appears you are the listed complainant. What you can do to help him is hire the best attorney you can afford to hire. Additionally, you are free to call or go the DA's office, and try to explain it to them. But, beware: if you do not have a complete understanding of the law as it relates to assault, you may do more harm than good by speaking to the DA's office. In my experience, complainant's who try to talk the DA in to dismissing an already-accepted charge are often manipulated into confirming the allegations, which will undermine your attempt to get the case dismissed. So, like I said, you need to be very careful. If you want to be safe and smart, help him find a good lawyer, and the three of you can discuss the facts of the case, the law, and the best way to proceed, in light of all three. 

If the interrogation was done in violation of the rights of your friend the statements she made may be suppressed and not used against her. It is not unusual for questions to be asked about a crime and the answer to your question depends on facts we do not have.