Hello, I got caught shoplifting from Von Maur yesterday, I stole 3 articles of clothing equaling $126. I signed papers saying I'm banned from the store, and from the mall, and I'm also on a database that retailers may subscribe to in order to find out if you've ever shoplifted. I was then taken to the police station where I got my pictures taken, finger prints taken, and sat in a holding cell while paper work was being filed. I then posted a $100 bond to release me and was given a court date to answer the charge of retail fraud III.
I need advice because I do not know what is going to happen or what I will have to do. I don't want anyone to find out about this and I can't really afford to hire a lawyer or attorney. Can I handle this case on my own? I'm willing to pay whatever fine I have to and do community service or take a class, whatever. All would like advice on is if I will have to serve time in jail, if I will get a huge fine, and if this will be on my record forever. I've never had any charges against me and my record is clean, I'm 18 years old. Please help.W

