I am 21 years old living in Ontario. I have recently been caught shoplifting in a Loblaws chainstore. The value of what I took was only about $20.

Their Loss Prevention Employee placed me under arrest and issued a notice that they might take action to have compensation for losses and if I don't pay the amount, they might take me to civil court.

Also, the police was dispatched and I was charged for theft and possession of stolen property. A trial date and a fingerprint date were set.

Is there anything I can do to dismiss the charges and not go to trial? Or is the first court date something that I have to go through first? Also, do I have to get a lawyer or can I settle this by myself?

I would get the attorney, on any criminal charge, ( even the minor ones) it is always best to have an attorney.