My question involves criminal law for the state of: Michigan
I was recently caught stealing items from a store. the LPO took me to the office where he told me they had video of me going into the bathroom and removing items from their package. I admitted my guilt to the actions and apologized and gave all the merchandise up. I was very shaken up and they got me to sign a paper that I believe admitted my guilt, but honestly I was too scared at the time to remember what it all said.
I know it was WRONG and I will never do something so stupid ever again. I've already sent the civil damages money in the mail. I was arrested and taken to the station and charged with Retail Fraud in the third degree, and I was released on my own accordance. I have my court date (arraignment) in a couple of days and I scared out of my mind!
I don't have an attorney because I am broke and have been looking for a job for a while now. I am a college student and I have NEVER done anything like this, no record whatsoever. I know not having any money is not an excuse to steal. Like I said before, I learned my lesson and I dont want this one mistake to ruin my future career dreams.
My questions are: When I go to my arraignment, should I plead NOT guilty (even though I am) because it might allow for some leniency (diversion programs...)instead of going straight to sentencing? Or will all of the damming evidence (like the surveillance video or that paper that I signed) make it impossible to plead NOT guilty? Or should I walk in and say that i "stand mute" and immediately ask for a public defender? Hopefully a public defender can advise me and maybe negotiate something so I can get into a diversion program or something for first time offenders?
Any advice would be soo appreciated!! I have no idea of what to expect in court so please help me!! Thanks!!!!

