What is the Procedure After You're Caught Shoplifting

[jamm]

I was 2 months before I turned 20. I got caught shoplifting at JCP in PA.
They took me into a room and then proceeded to inform me they knew I had shoplifted before. I signed two papars and then
they told me I should return all the items I had taken from the past few times. I did so. and after 40 days I received a letter from a law office in NY reguarding
the incident. I owed them $193.00 and had 30 days to pay. And now I am confused as to what happens next. The letter stated that this claim was " seperate from and in additon to, any criminal action arising from this incident.. " What is the 193 from ? I am just starting college and am petrified from my immature and stupid mistake that I can lose my job and/or it will stay on my record.

When i was detained inside the store, the man mentioned it could be erased from my record and not a felony with community service. This is also my first EVER offense. I've never even gotten a ticket or even done anything remotely against the law in my life... So I do not know what to expect . help!

[Mr. Knowitall]

After you're served with a civil demand you either pay it or you don't, and if you fail to pay they either sue you or they don't. You roll the dice, you take your chances.

In terms of what can be erased from your record, that would presumably be the criminal prosecution which you've told us nothing about. Consult a criminal defense lawyer with the facts.

[PandorasBox]

If police were involved, or you received a court summons...then you need a lawyer. IF you can't afford one, plead Not Guilty and ask for a Public Defender (there is a payment obligation).

Pay the Civil Demand. That covers the cost of surveilance; while you were shoplifting the item, a non-thief could not buy it so the store lost money; and the time the LP and Manager spent dealing with you.