What is the penalties for shoplifting in jefferson county Alabama?

I guess that may depend on what you shoplifted, in order to determine what the penalty may be! Under or Over the amount where it may be considered a felony?

It was less than $20 and I'm 20 years old

To charge you with theft, the police need to show that you acted with criminal intent, meaning you knew the property belonged to someone else and knew you didn't have their permission to take it, and that you actually have or had possession of the property. They can do that by using physical evidence, such as security camera video in a shoplifting case, or by statements from a witness, an accomplice, or you.

It is likely with a theft under $20, that you may get a nomimal fine, and be required to pay back the business. They may however want to teach you a lesson, and give you community service time.

I hope this taught you a lesson! It doesn't matter who you steal from, it costs us all in the end.

Don't quote me on this but the last I knew Alabama law allows the merchant to seek expenses for recovery of the merchandise and reasonable attorney's fees and court costs not to exceed $1000. So you have the possibility of being fined up to $1020. Not saying you will be, but that is the high end.