I am in my 30s and I was arrested at my local walmart for attempting to take 3 items with a combined value of approx $180.00 and I am summoned to appear in Court on 7/30. Even though I didn't leave the store with the merchandise I was caught in the act and admitted to the attempt. I was told by a friend who is a lawyer from another state that I should plea guilty because I have no defense for what I did. I have no excuse, just an impulse moment and feel horrible about this and depressed. I have never been in the trouble with the law before this is all new to me. I don't know what to expect! What is the worst case scenerio for this? and what also concerns me more than anything is if my place of employment will find out about thisthis! I fear this would jeapordise my only job I have had for more than 10 years. I had to give my place of employment to the police department. Any info would be greatly appreciated. How long will this stay on my record? I am from Massachusetts and this is the first time I have ever been in trouble with the law - and definitly the last time, i really don't know anything about the law and never stepped in a courtroom in my life. Please reply.

