Shoplifting in Macy's, in New York

I'm 18 years old and yesterday I shoplifted $271.61 worth of items in Macy's in New York. I have never been in trouble before, and this is my first offense. They took me in, I received a civil demand letter for payment of $500. They brought me to the station, handcuffed me, fingerprinted me and took my picture. I am extremely worried because I know the possible consequences I am facing. My court date is August 16th at 9 AM. Can anyone please grant me advice on the best possible way to handle my situation? Can anyone tell me the possible consequences that will happen on my court date and further on? Since this is my first offense and I will pay the civil demand right away, is there anyway this can just turn into a violation? Please help...

With that dollar amount!? You should consult with a criminal defense Attorney soon as you can.

I've consulted several Attorney lawyers that work in the Nassau/ Suffolk County on Long Island, New York and they've said something along the lines of either an ACOD, or a Sealed Violation. With the sealed violation they said that often times though, with this Computer age that it is hard to keep sealed because of the Background Check companies. They informed me that they would most likely have me on Conditional Discharge, the case would be adjorned for 3 or 6 months and then after that it would be dismissed. I just do not this awful mistake to be placed on my Permanant Record...Can you give me your feedback?

The time to worry about consequences was before the theft. Your Attorney is right in this computer age nothing is guranteed. Check into diversion and if you qualify. This can help keep a conviction off your record

I know, and I am aware that nothing canc hange what I have done. This is the first time I've gotten in trouble. Can this work to my advantage? Would I have to go to jail?

The chances of any jail time on a first offense is almost zero

with the amount of value that I attemped to shoplift...would that affect my qualification for an ACOD?

I don't know that you would need to ask your Attorney

Alright, Thank you very much on your time. I will keep you posted on what is going on, and maybe you can give more feedback..

again, thank you very much.