It's finally over, so I figured I'd post what happened to me. I hope this is helpful to someone.
I had stolen around 180 dollars in Macy's when I was 17 and attempted to leave the store with the concealed items. The security stopped me right when we left and politely asked me to hand over the stolen items, so I did and was taken to the back room to sign papers. I was really scared because my birthday was coming up in about 3 weeks, so I lied about my age and said I was 16 (big mistake!). This was the first time I was caught stealing. There was a mall cop involved, who basically told me I would recieve some papers within the month regarding my case, and not to tell any college what had happened.
After about a month, I'd gotten a letter from Macy's asking for 200 dollars, and if I paid it, they would drop their case against me. Needless to say, I had paid it the very same day and was very, very relieved. This changed after a sheriff came to my house and handed over a court summons. I thought the whole thing was over, but because the police officer was involved, I had to go to court.
I was appointed a public defender, and told him everything that happened, including how old I really was, why I lied, and etc. He assured me he could pass it off as a mistake, and told me since it happened when I was 17, he could try to get me into teen court, which would mean when I finished the program, I wouldn't have a criminal record.
I did get into teen court, and was 'sentenced' 30 community service hours, a packet to finish, a 500 word essay, jail tour, and 4 days of teen court 'jury duty'.
My final feelings on this would probably relief, and anger and being so dumb. It would've been cheaper if I had just bought the items, and I wouldn't have lost the trust and respect of my parents. I'm just glad that it's all over now.

