Dear all
I really need your help and really appreciate your help.
I was caught shoplifting (over $200 but < $250) yesterday. i am so scared and still can't calm down. the police came and took to the station and gave me a ticket for "petty theft" (first-time offender). i will have to go to the court on March 22th. I was cooperative because i think that's the best way to not to screw it up again. The police were nice and they also told me that they believe i am a good person and would talk to the procsecutor trying to reduce the charge "from theft to something else". My questions are: 1) What's the common charge for a case like this, would i get a convicted, would i have a cirminal record? what should I do to avoid this? 2) Can I believe what the cops said, i mean, will they be able to do that? and what will be the charge then? I was so scared and didn't ask, is it wise to call and ask now?
Thank you very much. I feel so stupid and regret for what I've done. Would they give me a chance?

