My question involves criminal law for the state of: New York.
I was caught shoplifting two items, worth a total of $900 dollars, at a Macy's in Manhattan. My sentence was communed to "disturbing the peace" I believe, and I was sentenced to 5 days of community service, $120 court fees, and a night in a holding cell. I am 18, attend college, and have no prior criminal record. I have completed my community service and am waiting for my court date in february to close the criminal case. I recently got a letter from a law office representing Macy's asking me to pay $480 (I had already paid $20) or Macy's would consider proceedings against me.
The merchandise I attempted to steal was undamaged. Does anyone know if Macy's is likely to pursue civil court proceedings, given I have already been convicted in criminal court?
Also, I was told by the judge that this offense would be cleared from my record in 2 years. Until that time, and after it, can employers see my criminal offense? If they ask me if I have a criminal record, can I say no, either before or after?
Any help would be a godsend.

