What's The Process After You're Caught Shoplifting?

My question involves criminal law for the state of: NJ
I was caught in shoplifting in NJ ($20), they called a cop on me and I was taken to the police station for the picture and the finger printing. The cop told me that I will have to appear in a court, and will get something in the mail about the court date.
This is my first time, and I am not sure about the process. Can some one please tell me what will happen to me, will I go to jail for $20 or will get away with community service. Also should I contact a lawyer right now, or should I wait till I get something in the mail.

Contact a Lawyer now would be wise

Do you know any good lawyer in NJ who i can contact.

My main question is will i go to Jail for this??? I am really sacared.

1st offense unlikely. Ask your Attorney

I don't have attorney yet, i am still waiting to get the court date paper in mail and hopefully i will get some attorney ad's too who i can contact.
What's the most they can do to me? I am extremely scared and not able to concentrate at work, god knows what i was thinking when i did this..... sorry to bother you guys....

Why would the court send you Attorney info? Start by openning yellow pages and make some calls

I guess i will do that..... but do u know what will happen the most????

You will get a court notice in the mail with a date, and time. Probably to a municipal court. This first apperance is your arraingnment, where you are informed of your rights to a fair trial, public defender if you cannot afford one, ect, ect. This is where you enter you plea of guilty, not guilty..ect. You will also have a chance to speak with the prosecutor, if you plead guilty you waive your right to a trial, and will be sentenced that day. I cannot speak for the judge, but based on the amount, and it being a first offense, I would guess that more than likely you will get a fine of no more than $500.00. Community service varies fom judge to judge. You will also have this charge on your record until you expunge it. (you have to wait 5 years for this) If you choose to hire an attorney you will get another court date in the mail, with a trial date, and they will motion or discovery, which means a request for all evidence against you. I hope this helps..good luck, and hopeully you have learned your lesson.