Going to Court for Shoplifting Charges

My question involves criminal law for the state of: Missouri

I got caught stealing an $18 pair of headphones from Wal-Mart. The LP stopped me before I left and said she saw me open it and found the package left behind. I followed her into a back room and she took down details. I didn't have any ID on me so she called the store cop in to verify the details. She said if I had my ID she probably would have let me go with entering my details into their computer. The cop gave me a ticket and a court date. They were very relaxed about it and actually started joking with each other while I was sitting there. I was not arrested or even banned from the store. I just left with the ticket.

My court date is coming up and I have not looked into a lawyer. I really can't afford one. This is my first offense, I am 18 years old and have never been to court before. I have not even gotten a speeding ticket or anything. Is a lawyer necessary? How should I plead? I am hoping the judge will go easy on me but I have no idea what to expect or do. I also got a letter from a private law firm in another state saying that Wal-Mart has asked them to settle the case, and they charged me $250. I didn't get the letter for awhile because I was away at college and they sent it to my house, so they upped the bill to $300. Is this really necessary? I thought that meant that Wal-Mart wanted to settle out of court because they have contacted this law firm, but I am still paying a ticket AND whatever the judge sentences me with. I am just at a loss. I have made a stupid mistake and learned my lesson, but I don't know how to deal with it. Any help would be appreciated.

The letter for $300 is a Civil Demand, and needs to be paid immediately. The Civil Demand is SEPARATE from the Criminal Charge and fines.

Since you can't afford a lawyer, you will want to attend your court date, and plead "Not Guilty" and ask for a Public Defender.

Depending on your area, the PD may cost you money ($250 here); and expect court fines around $300.

Ask the PD about a Diversion or any programs for First Time Offenders. Remember, those may not be free either.

Is there any way I can get a diversion beforehand and avoid court altogether? How do I go about asking for a diversion anyway with no lawyer?

Read what I posted and follow the instructions.