hi all , i was caught shoplifting at jcp store in texas ..the amount of the goods were worth $164( i did not check for the prices which th eLP put on paper..). i paid for 2 shirts that i took , but the rest of the merchadise plus 2 earings were worth $164. the Lp got me signed on a paper , which they said will send me in mail for some fine amount. i was handed over to the cop, taken fngerprints and got out on bail tat very night.
i even hired a lawyer who now says tat i need to ay him some 500$ for 3 sittings and after that he will be chariging me $150per hr. but when i discused the case with him, he said that i can ignore the claim that jcp is going to send me, and that he can get me on 6months probation( im an immigrant).
now my question is,
(1) does anyone have an idea as to what will be the civil demand that the store will send me in mail for the amount that i took.?( however, the LP kept the merchandise that i took and were in salable condition)

(2) can i ignore the letter that the jcp texas store sends me?

(3) can this arrest be of trouble if i renew my visa, is there any chances of it being rejected?

(4) cant the probation time be shorter than 6months according to the texas state law ( if i need to taravel to my conunty on an emergency situation)..wat are the other alternatives??

any suggestions from your side will of be tremendous help to me...please advise...
thanks a lot.