I am being accused of theft from my employer, no income and was advised by sheriff office to contact attorney

I'm not sure what you are asking.  There is no reason you have to wait until you are charged before speaking with an attorney, unless you are saying that you can't afford an attorney and intend to have one appointed to you by the Court when you are charged.  In that case, you should contact  your local legal aid society to see if they will help you before you are actually charged.