You should get an attorney to help you with this.  This is a misdemeanor, a criminal offense.  Perhaps they can get the charge thrown out on a technicality or somehow reduced.  It will be worth it in the long run to have a lawyer represent you.  If you can't afford one try legal aid (the public defender typically doesn't handle shoplifiting cases). Additionally, if this is your first criminal offense, you may qualify for some type of alternative sentencing which would leave you without a criminal record.  And, in Oregon, even if you are convicted of a misdemeanor you can move to have an "expungement" (clearing) of your record.Again, however, your first step should be to speak with an attorney.