My question involves criminal law for the state of: Maine
I am 19 years old and I am a great kid, I have never stolen anything in my life, and I have no criminal record. I go to school in Biddeford, ME but I live in Conneticuit. Recently I have been having money problems and stole a $24 item from Walmart. I even considered putting it back, knowing that what I was doing was wrong. I continued to walk out of the store when I was approached by two workers who took me into a back room. They took all my information and made me sign a few pieces of paper. A few moments later, a police officer came and took my information as well. He gave me a court summons. A few weeks later I recieved a civil letter from Walmart asking me to pay a fine of $85, which I did right away. I now have a court summons soon and I was wondering what I should do. I am on winter break and I still don't know how I am supposed to get to Maine for my court date since I do not have my own car. I am very nervous since nothing like this has happened to me. I have yet to tell anyone besides m best friend because I am nervous. I do not have the money to hire a lawyer or attorney so I will have to represent myself. What should I be prepared for? Do I plead guilty or not guilty? Is there any way that I can pay a fine to the state instead of going to court? Please provide me with any information you think would be helpful. Thank you!

