Should I pay $50 even if that doesn't protect me from criminal prosecution?

Shoplifting $50 of mechandice is the lowest larceny charge that exists.  first tim offenders are usually entitled to enter into a diversionary program that gets the charge dismissed as long as they complete the required program. i suggest that you go to court and explain that this is your first offense and you are sorry and make a stupid mistake.  explain that you would like to do some community service or enter into a diversionary program as well as pay the money back to the store as restitution so that the store is made whole.  the state will like this idea as they want the victims of crimes to be made whole.  while you may be able to go without a lawyer, i suggest making an investment into a lawyer to ensure that your record remains clear as you have a good chance of having this charge removed from your record.