Hi, I'm 19 years old and the other day me and one of my co-workers stole a few minor items from our place of work (under $1000), the cameras see us take the items out of lock up, but what the cameras didn't see is how we got the items out of the store, this is my first offence and I know I messed up and I wish it never happened but it did so, I'm just wondering of what I should exactly do from here on, do I need to get a lawyer? Or should I just talk to the judge and hope that he takes it easy on me? What's the maximum penalty I could receive for this?

Are you charged? If you are go to your local legal aid office from there you can find out what the crown attorney is planning to do... if he's seeking a jail term then get a lawyer ASAP. If he is just seeking probation you have 2 options one fight it in court with a lawyer witch could be quite costly. Or 2 Plead guilty with a duty counsel lawyer who may help you get a reduced sentence. Then you can file for a pardon and your record will be wiped clean. Please be advised I am not a lawyer nor a criminal but with my dealings with the court system these are your best 2 options

Agree with above, theft from employer is serious however a good lawyer should be able to help you and at best maybe a discharge would be offered.