13-year girl caught shoplifting for under $5 item, in Washington State. Item returned immediately when caught. Police called and took record. Claires store sent request for paying $250. Have not received anything from local court yet. Questions:
1. Why does Claires company still request for payment when local police and court will charge? Can we deny payment to Claires but deal with local police and court only?
2. Will local court request for plea guilty or not guilty? If yes, what is the proper plea?
3. Should we definitely get a lawyer, or parents can represent the girl?
4. What are the likely punishments? How should we mitigate with the court? Our bottomline is to leave no record for the child so her future is not stained.
Really appreciate your kind help - knowing you may have answered such inquries many times. But to a 13-year old first time, this is huge deal that affects her life. Thank you!

