I got caught for shoplifting at Target in New Jersey. It was a really stupid mistake in my life. I was trying to get the portable DVD palyer without paying it. It is about $120.00. After I went out of the store, the two security guards stopped me took me to a private room. They took my pictures and have all my info(name, address, Driver License #, and SSN). I was begging them not take me to the jail and i would pay everything. However, they called the police. The police came and wrote down all my information. I did not have any fingerprints nor taking me to the police station. After 10 minutes, the police let me go and told me that i would received a mail stated by what date I have to go to court. He also said that I am not allowed to go back to that store again. And he also told me I just need to go to the court and pay for the fine. When I left, I asked the police if it would leave a record. He said no,and if i don't attend the court, i might get a record for that. Btw, I am 21 years old and currently in college. and this is my first and last time did such mistake in life.
here are some of my questions:
(1) if the police said that i would not leave a record, should I believe him that and go for plead guilty when i go to the court?
(2) i am currently applying for citizenship, will be it affect anything?
(3) since the amount is less than $200, it is disorderly persons offense by the law of NJ, will it leave a criminal record?
(4) I have already paid the civil demand by the store, it is $150. but i have not yet received any letters said that i am going to the court, however, i received a lot of letters from lawyers advertisements, should i call the court and find out what date of my court date is?
(5) should I hire a lawyer to help me to dismiss my charge? Or Will I not get charged if I plead guilty?
I am sorry that there are a lot of questions, but i am really nervous about everything now, I need some advice to help my cases to settle, cuz it is related to my status for applying for citizenships and jobs, so if any of you guys know anything, please help me. I really appreciate for everything! Thank you!

