My question involves criminal law for the state of: California
I am a 19 year old college student (with a previously clean record) who recently got caught shoplifting $160 worth of merchandise at Urban Outfitters in Northern California. However, I'm back home in Southern California for summer. I did get arrested, but written a citation, and released after all the paperwork was filed. I was also banned from UO for 3 years, and told I would be receiving a civil demand letter.
I asked the police officer if there was any way to settle this in SoCal since I won't be able to make it back to NorCal for my court date. He said I could call the court, and explain the situation and also mentioned something about pleading guilty, paying the fine, and plea deals. That part, I am confused about, so could someone explain to me what this means?
Also, how much would I be looking at for the shoplifting fine? Is there anyway to keep this off my permanent record? And how much should I expect to pay for the civil demand?
Any and all help is greatly appreciated.

