Caught Shoplifting and Arrested, First Offense, Clean Record

Unless you have counsel as what to do otherwise, plead not guilty.

You're unlikely to get a plea bargain if you're only charged with the disorderly persons offense. What would they plead it to?
There's no PTI at that level.

This is why you need a lawyer. If you are truly indigent rather than just being greedy (which you've already been shown to be), the courts will provide you an attorney, ask at the arraignment.

Is there any way for me to speak with the prosecutor before meeting with the judge?