First Time Offense As a Minor

[rwade]

My question involves criminal law for the state of: South Dakota
I am only fifteen years old, and I on February 16th, I was at Walmart, took $120 of makeup (I had no clue it was that much. It was only about 10 items), and the LP followed me out to my car and had me come inside. I emptied my bag, they called the police, but I was not fingerprinted/photographed/had my Miranda rights read. They told me I would have a civil demand and a state fine coming. I haven't received my court date or my civil demand yet. My mom will NOT get me an attorney, unless it's required by law for a minor to have one. I am pleading guilty, because I am and my mom won't let me plead anything else. My mom talked to both the police and the Walmart people, and they were very pleased with how respectful I was. I am receiving counseling for shoplifting as well. What can I expect in court? Juvenile Detention? Community service? There are no classes for shoplifting (to get out on a first time offense thing) within 200 miles from here. What am I looking at here since I am pleading guilty with no attorney?

[PandorasBox]

Your mom is wrong in not getting you an attorney, I can understand her reasoning - it will cost atleast $1500 dollars for the attorney alone. Until you are 18 and can have your record cleared it will make it hard for you to find a McJob or any job.

It can also affect your college scholarships or financial aid. But hey...mom rules the roost.

Your mom or dad will need to be in court with you.

Your mom or dad need to realize - if the Civil Demand goes unpaid - they can be sued and it can affect their credit rating. And the amount can also increase big time to include the stores legal expenses.

Glad you are in counseling - $120 is not the first time you have shoplifted. Just the first time you were caught.

In court - you can expect court costs and fines. possibly probation, community service.....

[rwade]

If the judge asks me if I've stolen before (which you were right, I have), how do I reply? I do not want to lie in court, because this is illegal, but I don't want this to somehow get me further charges.