shoplifting - what is worst fine/penalty

[mcManis]

any lawyers/guides out there - I got into trouble of having a shoplifting complaint some time back. It was due to the fact that while doing shopping, I tried a pair of shoes with my child who is less than 10 years of age. Though the shoes was not costly (less than $16) but I came out of the shop mistakenly without making the payment of the merchandise.
So there are two charges framed- first is shoplifting in violation of N.J.S. 2C:20-11.B(1) and second is- using a minor to commit a shoplifting in violation of N.J.S. 2C:24-9.A

This is the first ever offence of my life. Can someone out there tell me the possible fines/consequences.

- Manis

[Eagle]

The shoplifting charge is a disorderly persons offense because the value is only $16.00. If you are found guilty you will be fined and given community service. However, some towns will allow you to plead guilty to a municipal ordinance rather than the state statute. This way the town collects more money and all you do is pay a fine. The fine is usually around $300 or $400 hundred.

If I were you I would hire a local attorney who has municipal court experience. This way you have a good chance of working out a deal with the prosecutor to plead guilty to a municipal ordinance violation. Also, depending on the facts of the case it may be worth fighting in court.

[mcManis]

Thanks for the reply.
I assume that there would be some fine for the first violation.
But is the second charge also just fine only - N.J.S. 2C:24-9.A.

Another thing to know that I don't want this case to register into my clean history. Can I somehow just pay the fine and ensure that I am not convicted so that this thing does not trouble me in future ever.

[Eagle]

Were you arrested for the incident or did you just get a summons.

[mcManis]

The guys on the shop called police and then they took me to a station, take my finger prints and then they gave me two comlaint-summons letter - one each with above two charges.

I told shopkeers that is was a mistake and all of them agress but one and that lady called the police. oops -

[mcManis]

Actually, I am more worried about the second charge which they have categoriesed to 'fourth category'.
Can I get diversion on conviction after paying the fine and/or some community service.