Shoplifting

[babyyy]

My question involves criminal law for the state of: California.

Hello everyone.

I am a seventeen year old female living in Los Angeles California. on February 10, 2009 i was caught shoplifting at an H&M store at the mall. I was caught and detained while my friend who is 18 was released, even though the security person said that they saw her steal.

The merchandise that i stole was worth about $40, and i did it because i did not have the money to pay for it & temptation got the best of me. I admitted to being extremely stupid and admitted all guilt. The police department was notified and i was given a court date for the 13th of April.

Because i am a minor, they could not release me unless a parent or guardian came to get me, so my brother drove down to pick me up. Just today i received a letter from the attorney office of H&M fining me $500. i called them and asked them if this fine conflicted with the my court trial and they said that this was completely different.

My question is, is $500 a little over the top?

This is my first offense and i am an honor student graduating at the top of my class.

also, does anyone know what i should say in court in order to avoid any bigger fines?

thankyou for your time, it is very much appreciated.

[blueeagle]

My question is, is $500 a little over the top?

A little steep, but clearly within the legal limits

This is my first offense

Go forth and sin no more.

and i am an honor student graduating at the top of my class.

And this entitles you to special treatment?

also, does anyone know what i should say in court in order to avoid any bigger fines?

I wouldn't say anything without legal council.

[babyyy]

And this entitles you to special treatment?

i did not say that i wanted any special treatment, i just wanted to know if that would help my case in court. i don't want any special treatment because i know what i did was wrong.

thanks anyway.

[Meneks]

Im going through the same problem...

I read on another thread of something similar except when they paid that "fee"
they got a mail for the warrant of they're arrest.
Now my question is could this actually happen?