Going to Court for Possession of Marijuana

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

A few weeks ago my friend and I were caught with a marijuana cigar in my car (less than one gram). In 2 days I have an appearance in court and have gotten some advice, such as pleading not guilty to advocate a reduction (which i have been told is very common in NYC) but I have also been informed that since this is my first offense that I may be qualified for ACOD, how exactly would I go about getting this? And could someone outline the chronology of the procedure for me? Please, its very important

Plead not guitly and ask for a legal aid,ask about an acod. It might be offered automaticaly,just becareful b.c an acod for marijuana is for a year.