I was caught shoplifting at Nordstrom and the cost of the stolen items was $270 with no damage. I told the Nordstrom's security people that I didn't steal the items and that I had the items with me when I walked into the store. However, they told me that they saw me grab the same items that were found in my bag and take them into the fitting rooms. I didn't have the receipt for the items nor did any of them have any "receipt free return stickers" on the tag, which comes with them when they are purchased. I told them I don't know anything about how the items were purchased and I don't have the receipt becuase I got them as gifts. They also said that they saw me put the items inside my bag, but they have no proof of that. They have no proof of me stealing the items, but they have me on camera with the items and it's in their system that one of each item that I took is missing. But how do they know that the ONE I took is the missing one. I also told them that the items they saw me grab, I tried them on and didn't like it so put it back on the go back rack in the fitting rooms. They called the police and the police gave me a citation to appear in court a month later with a warrant. I am 18 years old and have a clean record and live in the state of Oregon. I also don't have any money to get an attorney. Is the attorney that the court appoints free?
1) how should I plea? guilty or not guilty? do I have a chance to win?
2) Is there anything I can do during the one month of my court date?
3) what will happen in court?
4) what could the charges and penalties be? Will there be any way I can lesser my charges?
5) Is there any way for me not to get convicted or have a record?
Please help me! I'm depressed, scared to death, and feel suicidal.
I have no idea what to do and how to handle this situation.
Please help me, any advice or comments will be greatly appreciated! I will answer any further needed questions, in order to help me.
Thank you so much.

