17 Year Old Caught Shoplifting, 4th Degree

I know there has been tons of threads on this, but I wasn't able to come clear with an answer.

Anyway I was caught shoplifting at Wal-mart with an item worth 300$. I know stupid mistake. I was arrested and fingerprinted and had mugshots taken.
The cop said I was going to be charged with 4th degree theft.
They have it all on video and are going to give it to the police/judge.
I am thinking of volunteering for community service so maybe the judge will go easier on me.
I havn't got a court date yet, but I am clueless if I need a lawyer since they have the video of me stealing. Would it help? Should I plea guilty?

Please any help would be greatly apprieciated.
And how long do you think it will be on my record?

Edit - any idea how much of a fine I will be facing?

It is never wise to face a judge without an Attorney and your record last forever

do u have to pay restitution

If you dont they will likely triple fine and if you stil ldont they can sue you in court and win. then you hav even higher fee plus court costs and legal fees

I don't know walmart never said anything about that. Maybe I will be recieving something in the mail? Never mentioned it though

Many stores are pursing theft in both the criminal court system and the civil court system. Remeber OJ? Same thing... but on a theft level.

I know this thread is really old, but I just thought I would let you guys know what happened if you cared
I paid for a lawyer and they moved it down to JCC. I went to a meeting in my town's municipal building with around 7 adults who vonunteer for the JCC program. I got 10 hours of community service, letter of apology to parents, and had an audio program to listen to and answer questions.
All has been good since.

so u dint go to jail? ccuz i stole 200 dollars worth of things from macys and thats what i am worried about

OP, I'm glad things worked out for you, and that this happened before you reached the age of majority.

I'm sure you realize the problems this could cause were you to do something like this as an adult?

(if not, just read the forums!)

Good luck!