In a store in NM, I was stopped by their LP walking out of the store with shoes on that I didn't pay for. I told the LP and the cops that came that it was an accident, I forgot they were on my feet when I was at the register paying for something else, as I had been walking in them to see if they would be comfortable for the long trip I was taking. My shoes were in my purse at the time, because I was carrying lots of clothes around. The price of the shoes were $45. The cops put me in the back of their car, wrote me a citation and then let me go. I have to take the citation to the courthouse within five days to get a court date. The store said they will also send me a letter saying I am banned from the premises.
I have never been arrested before, and it is definitely a first time offense.
My question is what to do from here? I have no idea what to expect from court, I don't know anyone who has been there. Will the letter from the store include a fine, or do they simply send me to court and hope for the maximum penalty? I don't know what to say to the judge or whoever, I think it's a better idea to stick to my story when the store and arresting officer is present, but I don't want to piss the judge off either because I'm sure they hear that sort of thing all the time. If I continue to say it was an accident, does that count as my pleading not guilty, and then having to continue with more trials? I'd rather just get it over with, but at the same time if I can possibly get into a diversion program to get it off my record I want to. I don't have a lawyer, I'm a 20 year old student and I can't afford one. I hear of these court appointed lawyers, but when do I even talk to one? Please give me any advice, or an idea of what I can expect from here on. Thank you.

