Putting something small in your pocket and not paying for it can be a very costly mistake. It does not seem like the end of the world, but theft is considered a crime of moral turpitude. People just do not like those who steal from them, and so there are some serious consequences if there is a conviction for theft.
Think about it, if you were a hiring manager would you want to hire an employee with a conviction for stealing from someone? Of course not. Especially not in this economy.
Just because you are under investigation for a theft crime (such as shoplifting) does not mean that you are necessarily going to be convicted. For one, the State of Texas must prove to the fact-finder (judge or jury) that you committed the act beyond a reasonable doubt. That is the highest burden of proof in the American system of jurisprudence. However, if they do convince the judge or jury that you are guilty of a theft crime then you will likely suffer a lifetime of consequences.
Often times, if you hire a lawyer that is competent in the field of criminal defense then you can avoid many of the consequences of the behavior that you are being accused of. It can make a world of difference, especially the time and money that you have put into your education and future.