Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Well since your 18 this could have an effect on your record. You have been issued a citation and that is instead of being arrested. I would assume you were arrested or cited for a violation of the penal code called petty theft. Unless there were some other circumstances. You should probably get yourself an attorney so that it is handled correctly from the beginning. The first court appearance is the arraignment. The court will ask you if you have an attorney or if you want one appointed. If you can not afford an attorney a public defender will be appointed. The DA will then make some type of offer regarding a plea. That offer needs to be evaluated. After you have discussed the offer with your attorney, that will determine your next step.