Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft caught shoplifting in illinois, minor, 1st offense - HELP!

[iwasREALLYDUMB]

Back in February, I was caught shoplifting at a store with a little under $15 worth of merchandise. I was scared crapless and cooperated, no police were involved. It was my first and LAST offense. Yesterday I got a letter in the mail telling me I had to pay $250 to recover civil damages. I am 17.
After the $250 is paid, what happens? They didn't say anything about court in the letter, can I expect to get one later? Will this go on my record? I have no idea what to do or what to expect... =/

 

[thelawjournal]

After you pay this Civil Demand the event should be over. The only record will be with the store and any retail theft database they might subscribe to

 

[iwasREALLYDUMB]

Okay, thank you for your speedy response!

 

[thelawjournal]

Your very welcome. If this site was any help at all please post something in our testimonial section

 

[iwasREALLYDUMB]

I will!
I have one more question - because I am a minor, the civil demand was directed to my parents. However, I will be 18 in a month and would rather them NOT find out about this if at all possible. I want to take responsibility and try not to make them disappointed in me. I know as a minor it is legally the responsibility of the parents to pay. However, my bank account is in both my name and my mother's name, though everything comes to me. Because the check is under both our names, if I write the check will it be approved since my mother's name is on the account?

 

[thelawjournal]

I don't see why not since your on account. However read the letter you got quite often these recovery firms do not accept personal checks

 

[iwasREALLYDUMB]

The letter says:

Please use the attached payment coupon on the reverse side to make payment by check, credit card or send a cashier's check, money order, or other verified funds to the address listed on the payment coupon on reverse.

Does this mean it should be okay to use a personal check?

 

[thelawjournal]

Based on that wording yes. Long as you are authorized to sign checks your fine

 

[iwasREALLYDUMB]

Alright, thank you again for your clear and speedy responses! I really appreciate it.

 

[iwasREALLYDUMB]

Sorry, I have one more question. We'll, two actually.
First - I've gotten two calls from the law firm that the store is represented by, but when I answer it doesn't really say anything except that "this is not a telemarketer" and "we can help you, stay on the line to talk to a representative." I stay on the line for forever and it never connects me. Should I be concerned about this?
Second - Can I expect to recieve any more letters concerning this issue?

 

[thelawjournal]

Pay the fine and the calls should stop