Many people believe that judges are more lenient on first-time offenders, but the reality is that they are just far less lenient on people who are repeat offenders. If you are charged with a crime for the first time, you will stand a better chance at a more lenient sentencing than if you have many priors on your record.
But if it is truly your first-offense, you may qualify for reduced or amended charges, probation, a treatment court program, or a diversion – it is important that you hire an attorney who is experienced in obtaining these types of dispositions for first-time offenders.