October 1st, 2007 went to a Ralph's store in Irvine and took 1 grey goose bottle and placed it in my bag, manager caught me and I haven't left the store yet. But one of the workers saw me the night before and saw that I took 3 alcohol bottles. They have proof through video cameras. Cops came and they said they couldn't charge me for stealing that $60 grey goose bottle because I did not leave the store yet. But because I had no form of payment (money, credit cards) I was charged for intent to steal. Cops searched my car and found the alcohol bottles I stole from the night before along with a few other alcohol bottles.
Just received my court notice yesterday and didn't give me much time to prepare. My court date is this coming January 23rd. and these are the charges:
484 (a) - 488 PC Petty theft by taking and carrying away
459-460(b) PC burglary second degree - commercial structure - larceny only
484 (a) - 488 PC Petty theft by taking and carrying away
I spoke with an attorney and he is charging me $5500. He said that my case is more complex, because Orange County courts are strict, there's a possibility I may face jail time, because I had prior intent to steal and could be considered commercial burglary and the misdemeanor could be raised to a felony. But if everything works out well it could be lowered to an infraction so it will not go on my permanent record.
I really don't know what to do, please help, I'm stressing so much, I can't focus on my studies. I am a 20 year old college student and I definitely cannot afford $5500, not to mention the civil service fees that Ralphs's will send, and the fine I might get from the court. Should I hire an attorney? because Orange County is a rich community and I heard their strict.

