My question involves criminal law for the state of: PA
I was caught shoplifting two weeks ago at a store in the area. It was a very stupid thing to do, and I simply want to put it past me as best I can. I am 26, and this is the first time I've ever had any type of charges or arrest against me. The total cost of the merchandise is just under $70, which was given back to the store before I was taken by police to the station where I was fingerprinted. I recieved my fine in the mail by the magistrate office along with a court date. I talked with the clerk today and set up a payment plan, total cost of $272. I find this to be a lot, however I was told I can split up the payments over a month. I was also told that this is just like a traffic ticket, that I can still claim that I have had no criminal convictions against me, and that I wouldn't have to appear in court. I wanted to make sure of this, that if I pay the fines to the court that I will not have to appear in court, and that this will in no way be apart of my permanent record so that if I apply for a job, I can say that I have no convictions.
Also, the store evidently has a lawfirm representing them, and a day after getting my fine from the court I was told by this firm that I need to pay an additional $150 to avoid a civil suit. I have no idea if this is the same thing as what the court has me paying, or if I need to pay the additional money. It seems to be a lot of money in total fines for something that was under $100. I don't have any experience or knowledge in this area, any help that I can get would be greatly appreciated

