I was arrested for Shoplifting in Cook County Illinois at Walmart in Rolling Meadows last thursday. I stole 3 packages of batteries and 3 packages of lightsticks, but heres the kicker, they added 2 packages of batteries to the charges. They said that the amount equal to 54 dollars, which is bogus, because the batteries cost at most 6 dollars each and the lightsticks cost 2 dollars, so even if i stole the extra two packs thats only 36 dollars. So I was wondering what I should do, should I get a lawyer or Public Defender or just go at it alone. Should I plea guilty or what would be the best route for me. My court date is the 15th of June. Also I was wondering if 2 misdeamor charges(not had court date yet till the 27th of june) in Indiana on May 12 would affect this case or this case will affect that case. Also I live in Indiana. Any help would be appreciated.

