I was recently arrested for shoplifting in New Jersey. It is my first(and last) offence, I am 18, the total was $90.80 and I want to handle this without my parents getting involved. My court date is on March 18th and I don't know what to do.
My main concern is to settle this outside of court if possible with the store, how can I go about doing that?
I do not want this to follow me around for the rest of my life, should I plead guilty or not guilty?
Do I need a lawyer or can I get a public defender even though I still live with my parents?
What should I do?
Any advice would be greatly appreciated, Thank you so much.

