I accidentally sold tobacco to a minor and got a citation. I need help?

[hauulagirl69]

I have worked at this gas station for almost 3yrs. one day a minor came in and asked for a pack of cigs. I asked for her ID, checked it but added it wrong and sold it to her. Well an undercover officer came and gave me a citation. as she was asking me for my info she said " I though U had it! must have been a mistake", I told her yes I had calculated the dates wrong.
So I got a citation and a court date do I need legal advice or a lawyer or can I represent myself? Well I didn’t know that if found guilty I will have a criminal record for the rest of my life, than is unacceptable, because I also work for the Main Post Office at the Honolulu International Airport. I cant have a criminal record I can lose my job there. I am 41yr working' 2 jobs and just making' ends meat. I don’t even qualify for welfare. I have never had any type of criminal record even as a teens.
I need some advice please.. Thank U

 

[Joel1]

Best advice is you tell them you made a small mistake that really doesn't happen often.... if it's just a fine then i suggest pay it and be done with it but you might have to work something out with the judge.