My question involves civil rights in the State of:

I made one huge mistake the other night that I truly do regret. My friend and I stole combined $188.00 in clothes. We weren't arrested but we were told we will be getting a letter in the mail for a court hearing. I have plenty of questions.

1) Will my friend and I need a lawyer?

2) We my friend and I have the same court date?

3) What can we expect? I know we are paying what we stole but what other fines could be involved? Is community service an option? Is a payment plan an option? (p.s. I live in Maryland)

4) How long will this stay on my record? will this effect my current job?

5) Last, how long will it roughly be until my court date? Will the letter in the mail make it obvious that im being summons to court? I live on my own but the letter is being sent to my parents house...


Thank everyone who responds!!!!