What is the Effect of a Shoplifting Charge on a Minor

My question involves criminal law for the state of: Florida.

Earlier this week my daughter was caught shoplifting at JC Penny. She's 15, and is now well aware of the stupidity as well as the morality of her crime.

They pressed charges with the Clay county sheriff, 'Retail Petit Theft $100 - $300 value'.
They will also proceed with a Civil Demand, but I don't have the details yet. I am expecting a letter from JC Pennys Lawyers.

What kind of punishments is she facing? I'm guessing Community Service or fines.

What impact will this be on her record? (Juvenile Misdemeanor?)

Is this something that will follow her applying for jobs the rest of her life? ...And is there anything we should do now, to minimize the effects?

I assume we should just plead guilty, since she is guilty.

Your assumption is WRONG. Nobody should EVER plead guilty unless they have proper legal counsel as to the implications of doing otherwise. You don't have to plead guilty because you are guilty. Pleading guilty just concedes the point.

What would be best would be a diversion program where she takes a shoplifting course, pays fines and costs, and completes some probation (maybe community service). If she keeps her nose clean, the charge will just go away. The Juvie court judge otherwise is free to lock her up (unlikely), give her probation, make her take classes or cousnelling, or community service, or a combination of these.

You should consult a lawyer who handles juvenile cases near the court she is to appear in.

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Quoting flyingron

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What would be best would be a diversion program where she takes a shoplifting course, pays fines and costs, and completes some probation (maybe community service).

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As she is fifteen she is headed to juvenile court. Juvenile courts have a range of options available to the judge that do not involve adjudication. Whether the prosecutor's office also offers a juvenile court diversion program is something that would need to be explored locally.