Shoplifting from K-Mart in California

[dravain]

My question involves criminal law for the state of: California
Yesterday I was caught shoplifting about $85 worth of merchandise by LP. I was taken to the back and had to sign papers that barred me from K-Mart and I believe also admitted guilt. A police officer came and gave me a citation in the charges box/are it said, 490.1(A) Petty Theft Misdemeanor and I have a court date for the 24th of March. The K-mart LP told me that a civil demand will be coming in the mail. I am 16 and have a spotless record.

My question is how much can I expect to pay for the civil demand, what punishment am I most likely facing, what can I do to prepare for the court date, how much does a lawyer typically cost in these sort of cases, and will this seriously affect my college choices? Also if someone could link me to a site that shows California law in this matter that would be extremely helpful. Thanks a lot.

[cyjeff]

You HAD a spotless record.

You will receive a civil demand in the neighborhood of $200-$250.

You will go to court, be given another fine, court costs, community service and, most likely, probation.

Your total cost of the theft will be around $2000.

[dravain]

Do you know how long the probation will likely be? And what does being on probation entail?

[PandorasBox]

Probation....well, we can't tell you that one. Depends on the individual prosectors and judge.

Probation usually includes: No alcohol, no drugs, no underage smoking....basically staying out of trouble, period. And fullfilling any court-ordered things like Community Service or Anti-Shoplifting class.

Since a cop came....expect to be ordered to report for fingerprinting and mugshot also. And good luck finding a job in retail, banking, anything involving handling money or credit cards.

PS: That No Trespass warning for KMart likely includes Sears, Sears Essentials, etc.