Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft caught first time in CA

[rtfscary]

i was caught shoplifting in a big store stealing a $10 item, they said that they will send me a letter, i never signed anything they just get my id and let me out of the store. what is the paper they're talking bout? how much is the fine for it? do i still need to go to court for stealing a $10 item? will i have criminal records or something on my record?

 

[thelawjournal]

This sounds like Civil Demand. If so expect the fine to be around $50.00 - $100.00 There should be no record outside of store and any retail theft database they might subscribe to