My question involves criminal law for the state of: California
i was caught shoplifting on March 9, 2008 at Mervyns in CA. the total amount was about 180.00. i was out the door when the LP security ran after me and asked to to step back inside. i was so scared i thought i was going to die. i was ashamed and even now just thinking about it scares me. she took my info and told me that the amount required her to call the police. the officer was really nice he just gave me a citation and let me go. he didnt even walk me out (walk of shame). so my court date is April 15 and im scared of what will happen. my biggest fear is that my family and friends will find out. i got in contact with a program NASP(National Association Shopplifing Prevention) and completed a sort of rehab program with them in hopes showing to the judge that im trying to get help and stop shoplifting. Ok so here are my questions. Does anyone know what will likely happen in court? also i got a letter in the mail from Mervyns Lawyer this is what it says "This letter is a demand that you pay 295.00 in satisfaction of this civil matter. this is not an attempt to collect a debt. under CA Law Cal. Penal Coder, Section 490.5, meryvns has a civil cause of action against you because you intentionally deprived Mervyns of merchandise without paying for it. the law further provides that seperate from and in additon to any criminal action arising from your conduct you may be held civilly liable for costs of merchandise if damaged a civil penalty and court costs and reasonable attorneys fees. mervyns does not wish to file a civil action against you however, if we do not recieve payment wthin 30 days from the date of this letter, mervyns may make every effort to enforce its right under this law, which could include a civil court action against you. if you are determined to be reponsible and the judgement is not paid, this could also result in an adverse impact on you credit rating."..... Im thinking if i should even pay this or go to court first. im planning on going to talk to a public defender. i dont want to rush and pay these 295.00 if i really dont need to. id rather pay them in court costs which im sure i will. basically i need advice on what to do in my situation. please anyone

