First Offense Shoplifting at Walmart in California

[jasmine209]

My question involves criminal law for the state of: California

Okay, so a few days ago my friend and i got caught shoplifting in walmart. i attempted to steal an eyeshadow and eyeliner, together they are under $10. but my friend took like 4 makeup eyeshadows and 2 shirts. so we were trying to walk out of the store when two security guards, but in usual casual clothes took us to this little room, and they told us to give them back all the mechandise or else theyd call the cops. so we let them check our bags and they took our phones. we gave them back everything. they checked if both of us had done this before in the system and we werent, since this was the first time we had gotten caught. so they made me sign two papers, i didnt have a chance to read what they were for since they said we either signed them or they called the police, so i signed them quickly. they took our pictures. but at the end the police werent involved. they said that we would be getting information by mail for paying restitution? in between 50 to 500 dollars. so my question is, will i have to go to court or will i just have to pay this fine? im 19 but my friend is 15, so her parents had to go get her, so my other question is whether our fines will reflect what both of us stole together or what each of us individually stole? and im a college student so i was wondering if this would affect my chances of financial aid? i know i did something very stupid and i will never do this again, but i just need help in figuring this out. thanks.

[flyingron]

If they didn't report it to the police you got off lucky. Pay the civil demand when it comes and by and large it will be over (though you may find it hard to get a job with the name brand retailers in the future). It should not affect your financial aid. If the police were notified and you have to go to court, you're well advised to consult a lawyer.

[PandorasBox]

And if you are so concerned about your financial aid, then stop shoplifting. One day, you will be caught...and the cops WILL be called. It will cost you $1000-2500. It will cost you your financial aid. And it will make any job hard to get. In fact, it could make your degree worthless.