My question involves criminal law for the state of: New Mexico
I was arrested for shoplifting on Oct at a Walmart. It was my first offense I am 23 yrs old and I know it was very stupid. when stopped by LP when I was leaving they told me they had followed me on surveillance and watched me put some things in my purse. I was very scared so I told them I was sorry and I offered to pay for what I had taken of they would let me go ( i didn't have any money so i would overdraft in my credit card) they just ignored me when I talked and then the police got there and arrested me and I spent the night in a detention center and they released me with a court date. I went to court without consulting with an attorney before that and I wasn't sure of what to do so I asked the judge for her input and she didn't help so I pleaded no contest because I was obviously guilty and i thought that pleading not guilty would get me in trouble. I wasn't given any sentence or conviction yet I was given a second court date for Jan 2010 and now I don't know what to do.
I don't have the money to hire an attorney but I don't qualify for a public defender because apparently you basically have to be on the street for them to believe your broke. I don't know how I can consult with somebody for advice I really don't know what to do now. Can I change my plea?? should I expect jail time?? how much do I have to pay?? what do I say since I don't have an attorney and I would like to get the lesser conviction there is?? please help! LP didn't tell me what the amount was but I over heard them talking and heard $47 (i don't think it could've been any more than that)

