My question involves criminal law for the state of:california, san mateo county.
I was recently cited for shoplifting $90 (retail value) of merchandise from a dept store. The actual value with sale prices wouldve been less. I didn't go into the store to steal but did make that mistake while I was there - I won't make excuses. Desperate, greedy...list goes on. The cops came and while they didn't cuff me, they did cite me for "petty theft" and gave me a court date. I am 32 yrs old, a mother, and married. My husband is disabled and my job is our only source of income. I had my only biological child at the age of 15 and instead of becoming a statistic, I immediately went on to college and have worked very hard to have the job that I am in. I've studied administration of justice, am/was on my way to becoming a certified paralegal, I am a notary puplic for the state and hold a real estate license. I have worked my entire adult life to achieve this and to set an example for my teenage son. I know that contradicts my actions and I welcome the criticism I know will come after this post. I deserve it. I've never had a blemish on my record, am a law abiding citizen and my health is rapidly deteriorating while worrying about what this will all cost me. If I am convicted of a misdemeanor, I will lose everything I've worked for, including my job. All of my studies for the past 10+ years will be in the toilet. I know what I did was wrong and I HAVE learned a huge lesson by just worrying about how to tell my children why we can't pay the rent. Please help. What can I do to reduce this to an infraction?? Is it possible? I'd be willing to do any amount of comm service and pay the fines I have coming to me. Thank you.

