My question involves criminal law for the state of: California
I was stupid, and was charged at Fry's in California with petty theft P.C. 488.
I swapped out the content of a $89 hard drive for a $50. I did paid for $50 hard drive, so the difference was $40. I'm 30. This my first offense, and I have no priors. I was given a citation by the local police and given a court date. I also told by Fry's employees to expect a civil demand. I have a few questions:
1. Should I get a lawyer or consult the local public defender?
2. Can I strike a plead deal with DA from a misdemeanor to an 490.1 infraction on my own?
Please Advise. Thanks

