I am in a bizarre (shoplifting) situation in NJ.
I wanted to buy an item that had no price tag and nothing came up on price scanner too. I found that some items in the same aisle were $4.99 price tags. I thought that my subject item is on sale at $4.99. So, I stuck a loosely hanging price tag of about $5 to my item and checked out.
As soon as I checked out, a store employee confronted me about the item and told me that the item I just bought is $19 and she saw me altering the price tag. Well, there were some similar items in a distant aisle at $19 which I was not aware of.
I tried to explain that it must be a confusion and that I am ready to pay the difference. The lady took me aside, and asked me to fill a confession form and give my ID. I stuck by my stand and inquired what lies ahead if I sign the form and why she can't let me go after charging the difference.
The lady yelled to the store manager that I am not co-operating and what followed was a nightmare. The police was there in no time. I was arrested and charged with shoplifting at the police station under NJS 2C:20-11(b).
My court date is in a week's time. I was wondering if someone has any advise to offer, I am not sure if the store has me on tape sticking the price label.
The police told me that I would be let off with a fine. But, I'm getting scared after reading about community service and jail sentence.
Is it advisable to go without an attorney? Should I plead guilty or not guilty. Please advise. Can a lawyer help me in getting the case dismissed. How much it might cost?
Will I be able to go to the same store/chain in future.

