Do You Still Have to Go to Court if You Pay the Civil Demand

[jessica83]

My question involves criminal law for the state of: California
I am 18.
Two weeks ago I was caught shoplifting clothes from Macys. I had 6 items of clothes that amounted to $240.
They called the cops but I was not issued a citation of any kind.
Macys gave me a civil recovery to pay, and I have began to pay that off.
I have not recieved anything in the mail yet to go to court, and the police can't find a report of me in their system..
What is going to happen?Is this because Macys hasn't processed me yet, or has the cop not done a report.
Will I still have to go to court?
Someone please help, I am so confused!

[Mr. Knowitall]

If you pay the civil demand you won't be sued. The civil demand has absolutely nothing to do with any potential criminal case. If nothing is reported to the police or courts, there won't be a criminal case; as a police report was made, you will have to wait and see what happens, and prosecution is likely.

[PandorasBox]

You indicate police were called. You will be mailed a court date.