My question involves criminal law for the state of: California
I know there are plenty of other threads out there regarding the same exact thing, but I have a lot of questions, so I see no better way than to get them answered than to post a new thread.
I was caught shoplifting at a grocery store a few weeks ago. It's really embarrassing and it was the first time I tried stealing anything. It was a bottle of Sky Alcohol for $32. I would've bought it, but I'm only 20. I keep reading that because it's less than $50 that I can get the charges reduced from a misdemeanor to an infraction but I'm confused on how I do that. Also, I didn't goto the store with the intent of stealing, this was decided in the store. The LP guy at the store said that because I cooperated that he wasn't going to tell my employers and that I'd probably just have to pay a fine. I hope he's right, but I've read so many things.
Should I get a lawyer? I'm not even sure if I can afford that.
Would a Public Defender be enough?
What is the absolute worst that can happen in my situation?
How do I decrease the charges?
Thank you all for your help, I really appreciate it.

