My question involves criminal law for the state of: CALIFORNIA
I just turned 18 and today I was caught stealing $10 in merchandise from Wal-mart (I know, I know, I'm a dumb kid and they weren't worth it). The guy that processed me cut me a break and didn't get the police involved. He said that I would get a fine in the mail, and my immediate concern is what the letter will look like. I have the money to pay it (he said $50-$100) and I don't want my parents to find out, and I think they open my mail sometimes and will be especially tempted if the envelope is addressed from a law firm or something. Does anyone know what it will look like in the mail so I can come up with an excuse or a story?
Also, I'm a little worried they may change their mind and call the police after all and I'll have the cops knocking at my door and taking me downtown. Am I wrong in thinking they have the grounds to do this? And, if they do have that right, what are the odds that they will?
At this point I'm just glad the police weren't involved, that my record is clean, and I'm going to pay that fine, but if anyone can answer my questions I would be very grateful and relieved.

