Misdemeanor ticket was issued wrongfully. How can we fight that?

[voliny13]

My relative (age 19) was issued a misdimeanor (shoplifting) ticket for walking out of the store with an item (headband) on her head by mistake (value $12.95). she had only walked out 5 yards when she realised it, she quickly returned to the store and gave it back to the store clerk. NO arrest was made but ticket was issued. How can we fight that? any chance of getting that ticket dismissed? and if we pay the ticket what are the consequences of it such as the violation showing up in the criminal record? can you please help? any Low cost Legal aid avlbl in Houston/ Humble area? Thanks. Sid

[weiford]

one fights any criminal accusation by pleading not guilty and standing trial. At that trial the prosecutor will try to prove that the defendant took the property with the intent to steal, and the defendant will try to persuade the judge or jury that he lacked the intent to steal. Then there will be a verdict.
Yes, there are public defenders in your area. Whether you qualify is another question.