Do I need an attorney for retail theft and is there a way to get it off my criminal record?

I'm 22 years old and pregnant. Due to the holiday season and money being tight, I recently got caught shoplifting 2 wallets and they found express clothing as well in my purse. I did have a shoplifting device. I admitted to ordering online to try. I didn't use the device because it was actually difficult. And when showing the security I couldn't do it nor could they do it. They told me they would not put it in the report since it wasn't used which I don't see on the report. But I'm not sure if the security at the store will mention about the device once in court. I did get arrested and paid my bond of $150 at the police station. They told me to come to court in the town in 2 months. I have a friend that was in a similar situation but the amount they took was less than what I had and they didn't get arrested. They just had to go to court and pay 2 fines. This is my first offense in shoplifting or any crime. Will I need a lawyer as my friend didn't and they said it would not go on his record since it was his first offense. And also, if it does go on my record, will there be a way in the future to get it removed? In case it matters, the amount from the stores together was about $290.