Was caught shoplifting in Forever 21 (CA). I am an adult.
I signed a few papers admitting that I had stolen $17 worth of merchandise. They took a copy of my id, and asked for other basic information, then proceeded to tell me that I would receive a letter in the mail.
Palmer Reifler sent one letter out May 22, stating a fine for $500, and 20 days to pay that. I wasn't aware of the letter until today. (It had been sent to a different address, and the people living there never bothered to contact me until now) Obviously this offer has since expired.
Letter two was sent June 18, stating that the fine was now $700 and that I would have 10 days to pay this.
It's for a civil suit. I've skimmed a few other entries on the forum, and it seems like I should just settle and send in a payment. The law firm that represents forever 21 is asking for payment (check written for them). Does that sound right (sorry, but I really don't know how this should work)? Versus forever 21 asking the check be written out to them? I just want to make sure I'm not somehow getting scammed here.
What should my course of action be? Will I have to go to court at all? Also, after paying, does anything go on my criminal record? Does it go on any sort of record at all? Will it show up in background checks?
Also, earlier I was looking up things on the internet, and the general consensus seems to be that Palmer Reifler doesn't normally follow up on such small claims. How true is that?

