[ScottGem]

That's not the point. Many of the questions here can apply to other people or at least give them ideas. Lots of people just lurk and learn. I tailor most of my answers to the specific question. But, by posting a public response, you may help other people as well. And there is always the possibility that you make a mistake or even a type that reverses your advice. By posting publicly others might be able to catch the error.

[CaptainForest]

You both realize that this post is a year old??

[ScottGem]

Actual I missed that and I doubt is bailey will respond, but the principal remains the same.

[Logan02]

I have heard of stores working out their own fine system- you agree to pay them BUT you have already been charged by the police so DON'T deal with the store directly DON'T pay that bill they sent you. DO keep that bill! IF they decide to take you to small claims court it's not a really big deal and they can't ask for legal costs either. Don't believe that they can't sue you because you are 16 either, they could probably also sue your parents. If they do sue you and you have that letter asking for that $300+ then you can respond to the small claims court that if found guilty that is the amount you would agree to. Since they sent it to you in writing they can't exactly get away with changing the amount to a hire amount. For sure I would get it put off until after your criminal court is done and see what happens there.
As for getting a lawyer- what about legal aid? You should be entitled to that. A lawyer can get people off easier than you can get yourself off. You can also talk with the prosecutor to work out an agreement or some sort without going to trial. Agree to pay the store, agree to never go into that store again, etc.

I am currently getting information for myself as well- I went into a store with a guy he went his way and I went mine, checked out what I wanted to and then left. 2 months later the police came to my door and arrested me on two counts of theft under $5000 because I was in that same store 2 times- they have me on camera going in and out of there store- I NEVER took anything and they don't have me taking anything either. They said that after he left they found empty boxes and reviewed their tapes so we are both charged! They don't have proof that he actually took anything either. One thing that I know is that afford it or not- going to court with out a lawyer will be a disaster for me, I'd rather pay a lawyer and have this thing taken care of then to end up with a criminal record for the rest of my life for something I didn't even do.