Caught Shoplifting, What Do I Do

[Iscrewedupbigtime]

My question involves criminal law for the state of: New Jersey

I was caught shoplifting at my local Target. The people at the store were incredibly rude to me but I kept my attitude positive, answered all their questions and cooperated. A police officer came and hand-cuffed me and drove me to the police station. Once there, the officer was very nice and understanding. He explained to me everything that was going to happen before it happened. For example: He informed me that I was going to get fingerprints done beforehand and he was a gentleman. Before I left, an officer informed me of a program I could go through to "get rid of this sort of thing." However, since I live in a different city than where the crime was commited, I am unable to participate in that particular program. I was out of there within two hours and I got a court summons from them for June 15th at the Municipal Court of Linden.

I am 18 years old and I have a clean record. I haven't gotten any tickets or anything of the sort. I am also a full time college student and I have no money for a lawyer.
I decided to tell my parents and although they aren't happy about it, they have agreed to help me in any way they can.

I've called several lawyers and they have all told me to plead not-guilty and petition for a public defender. I fear that I'm not eligible for a public defender because my parents make a decent amount of money. In that case, I would have to represent myself and I am so scared.

The last lawyer I spoke to suggested that I try to negotiate with the Prosecutor which my parents and I are going to try to do.

QUESTIONS:

What types of negotiations could I make with the prosecutor?
Is there anything I could do to reduce the charges?
Is there a deviation program that I could participate in?
Can I have a pre-trial intervention?
Do I have any other options?
What happens if I plead nolo contendere?
What happens if I plead guilty?

[PandorasBox]

Since you are 18, you are an adult. I also assume you are out of high school. That would mean the costs would be in YOUR name and not your parents.

Listen to what those lawyers have told you....plead Not Guilty and ask for a Public Defender. Ask that public defender the questions you listed above. He/She will be familiar with the prosecutor and judge in your area, if pre-trial intervention is available, etc.

If you plead guilty....you leave the judges hands tied. You are sentenced to something within guidelines. there is no negotiating. Your job options will be very slim.

A lawyer or P.D may get you a reduced charge. Let's face it....Disorderly Person looks better than Retail Fraud...If you can get into a diversion program, your record may even be sealed after a period of time....