What should I do in order to receive the least possible punishment regarding a shoplifting incident?

If you cannot afford to hire a attorney, the court should appoint a public defender for you. In most states, shoplifting is a misdemeanor offense punishable up to 90 days in jail if it is a first offense and the value of the property less than $500.00. For first time offenders, they are usually granted probation and even a deferred sentence to avoid having a criminal record, but this will ultimately be up to the judge to decide.