Petit Larceny Advice Please

[Pleasehelp1983]

My question involves criminal law for the state of: New York.

I went to the District Court of Nassau County, New York today because I got a ticket for petit larceny. I admitted to the loss prevention agent in my store that I had stole a total of $308.00 of merchandise. They are charging me with $175.00 which they have video footage of from a hidden camera that was positioned backstage. I appeared in court today and pled "not gulity" and was given a due date of August 13th, 2008, in which I should appear with a lawyer. I cannot afford a lawyer being enrolled in a graduate school program and currently unemployed. Additionally, I am scheduled to take a STOPLIFT Class on July 26th, 2008 that has to be completed and paid for ($100.00) before appearing again. What are the consequences of this matter the next time I appear at court without a lawyer, being that this is my very FIRST offense? Will this affect my teaching career? I will greatly appreciate any legal or non legal advice.

Respectfully,
CR

[panther10758]

Contact court and ask how to contact the Public Defender. If judge told you to show up "with" an Attorney then you should do so

[Pleasehelp1983]

I am going to contact the district court and ask to speak to a public defender asap. Are public defenders the same as a district attorney? Additionally, will this stay on record? Will this not get my a teaching job in the NYS? Help! Thank you for your help hon.

CR