I was caught shoplifting worth $430, how do I avoid jail?

I was caught shoplifting. I honestly don't know what I was thinking, and I was stupid. The value was about $430. A statement was written and a list of the items was made (I did not receive a copy of any of this) and I was told I could never enter this store or any other stores owned by the company. The police were called, but I was only given a ticket with a court date for a couple of weeks from now. I have a clean criminal record. This is my first offense. I would like to know a couple of things. First off, I am self employed, but I don't make any money at my self employment and am considering closing my business after the first of the year. I have no money but have a friend that is willing to help me with any fines and court costs. I have read other stories of shoplifting with first offenses and some stories have stated that you should ask to speak to the prosecutor and ask for a deferred judgment. Does this happen? How do I go about doing this. I have no money to hire an attorney and have no idea how to get a public defender. Does anyone know the approximate court costs and/or fines that might be assessed? Since this is my first offense, what will PREVENT me from spending any time in jail? How does this deferred judgment work with relation to not spending time in jail? Any advice is appreciated please. Thanks.