My question involves court procedures for the state of: Michigan
I was recently caught shoplifting at a local department store- about $100 worth of merchandise. I was caught, but not arrested although they did say they were going to prosecute. They told me that I would receive a letter from the department store with a fine of double the merchandise ($200) and a letter to show up in court. This is my first offence (I’m 24), and it was stupid and pitiful. They were actually very kind, and I was very honest with them. They told me that since this is my first offence, I will probably show up to court and they will just give me a warning. Is this true? I know it depends on the judge, but they (the store managers) seemed to think that I would get off with just a warning and that happens quite frequently with first offenders. And if so, would it show up on my record? Is there a possibility that I will have to pay another fine, or get community service? Also- will I just get a letter in the mail, or will I have to sign for it or something? As you can tell, I’ve never broken the law and I have no idea how this works.

