Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft Caught shoplifting in California

[jaa81]

I made a horriable mistake,I stole an outfit from a major department store.I actually stole the outfit to wear to a job interview,I've been out of work for months.Anyhow I am 27 years old and I have no record what so ever.The store placed a citizens arrest on me and an officer showed up and read me my rights and asked to take a statement but I chose to remain silent,was that the right thing to do? I was not arrested but the officer did give me a ticket with violations listed as 484(a) and 490.5(a)pc and a court date listed.The amount of the merch. stolen was under $100 but over $50 full retail.I am so confused and terrified,what should I do?My court date isn't for 2 months but I want to be pro active and start getting things done before then even though the officer told me not to worry about it until I go to my court hearing.To make matters worse my 10 year old daughter was with me but had no idea of what I was doing but the LP guy kept trying to get me to say she was involved but she wasn't.The lp people told me I would be getting a civil demand letter in the mail that I have to pay.I read a lawyers advice on another site and he said to not pay the rediculous amount it is going to be and to just send a $50 money order with "payment accepted as satisfaction of all claims" written on it. Is that good advice?What other fees/fines should I be expecting?Is there anyway I could avoid this going on my record?Any help is appreciated,thanks

 

[thelawjournal]

This is not the first tie we heard this foolish advice. Let me explain what coud happen if you fail to pay Civil Demand.

. Fine will triple or more. (By the way this is state law and legal)

. Company can report this lack of payment to credit reporting agencies making loans etc more difficult

. Company can sue you in court and win! This will cost you the higher fine plus court cost and legal fees. Making your few hundred dollar fine go into thousands possibly. Pay this fine in full ASAP

No keeping this off your record will require you do some footwork. Start calling Attorneys those who offer free consultation take them up on it. All of them. Ask them if Diversion is available in your case. Keep inmind not to be difficult as your lucky Police did not involve CPS in case since you had your child with you