My question involves criminal law for the state of: Florida
So me and my GF were cought stealing about 120$ worth of merch from Sears. I'm 25 and she is 19 (was 18 at the time). The LP guy stopped us as we walked out of the door. They took us to the back and got all of their stuff back (all in tact) and the cop came and did his report and then let us go (no police station stuff).
I got a letter from a law firm representing Sears requesting that each of us pay them $200 seperately (400 total) and also a letter from the court requesting a notice to appear with the charge being listed as "Petit Theft". We already told the officer and LP that we both stole and told them straight up what happened.
What I'm looking for is a little advice, I've never done this before or been in trouble with the law before (other than a suspended license over an unpaid ticket). So I have no criminal record.
I read quite a few of the threads on here, but would just like to see another opinion to give myself peace of mind. Knowledge is power!
Also, my GF was cought stealing a beef jerky (lol one dollar) at a convience store a couple of years ago. She isn't sure if she has any kind of 'record' for that incident.
Thanks in advance for any advice or words!
Also, it would be neat with all of the recent massive federal reserve note printing if the dollar plunged in value and our fees for this wound up being very cheap by the time we have to pay it! Wishful thinking I guess (in a sick way, haha). Oh yeah, we can't afford any lawyers or anything so that's why we're here.

Agreed 100%
