My question involves criminal law for the state of: southern California
I've been caugt shoplifting at a local Ralph's grocery store. I was extremely hungry and stuffed my bag with lots of frozen food, totalling to $54 (withouth me knowing it was so much!) I received a civil demand fee for $400. The Loss Prevention officers filed their own report, but the local police officers did not bother arresting me, and sent me home without a ticket nor a report. I've been trying to reach the law office that sent me the bill, but they are not responding and ignores my lawyer's calls. It's been 10 days since the letter requesting fine, and I am supposed to pay within 14 days. Obviously, if I pay the full amount, they won't bother negotiating-- I just want to beg for a discount, but am frustrated that they're just letting time pass. What happens if they charge me a late fee because THEY weren't responding to me?
Also, I am moving out of state soon. What happens if I decide to ignore this whole thing? Isn't $400 is too much?
They kept me in the breakroom for 3 hours, and I had a small seizure from having not eaten all day. They asked if I want ambulence, and I declined because it would cost a lot.
(I am a 26 years old female with a clean record.)

