First Time Shoplifting at JCPenney in California

My question involves criminal law for the state of: California

Yesterday i did something stupid i saw some fake ring with the retail value of $12 i liked and took it and got cough when i walked out. I was asked to go to their office i admitted i stole it i had to do some paper work and they called the police. I was held there for a few hours. They categorized me under petty thief. This is my first time shoplifting I've had a clean record. I am 21 so i am an adult and i know i will be charged as an adult. They assigned me to go to court at the end of may. I was wondering if there is anyway to reduce the fine that i am going to receive or get the charges dropped, but most importantly not have it on my record. I can not afford a lawyer i came to the US for college from another country on a F1 so i am not allow to get a job therefore i can not afford a lawyer So how can i prevent this mistake from being on my record? I am majoring in business if the incident is on my record will it affect me getting a job in the future involving business?

I am so worried about this, i cant sleep or concentrate.

another question if i get a Public Defender the ones that i don't have to pay for, do i have to contact and get one before my court case or at the same day of the court case? And how do i contact and get one?

First, I would recommend an appointment with a Criminal Defense lawyer. Many offer free consultations.

I was told to "stand mute", and then there would be the paperwork for a Public Defender.

Be ware though: "Free" is not always the case. My county, for example, has posted on their website that they do expect you to pay $210 for the P.D.