Minor Shoplifting In California

[indiesoundclash]

Let me start off by saying that I am a complete fool.

Last week, I had strolled into the Sephora make-up store and saw a bottle of perfume retailed at $65 dollars that I wanted. I took it, walked around the store, and what I thought was slickly, slipped it into my bag. Soon I was caught by the LP manager and taken into their back office. She took down my information and told me that I would get a letter in the mail from a law office in Florida, stating that there was a fine for me to pay. Then she proceeded to call the police department. The police officer came, also took down my information, and said that I would be getting a letter in the mail with a court date. Since my parents are out of the country for awhile, she had me call my 23 year old brother. I am 17, and turning 18 on February 27th.

1.) What is the worst I can expect? (in terms of fines, consequences, etc)
2.) Do my parents have to be further involved or will my brother acting as my guardian be okay?
3.) If my court date is after my 18th birthday, will I still be charged as a minor OR as a legal adult?

[Mr. Knowitall]

I would expect you to be charged as a juvenile, and to be looking at probation, fines and possibly community service. I expect that the court will want to involve your parents.