summons - shoplifting

3+2

i have been accused of shoplifting although it was a genuine genuine mistake. i had stuck a mascara in my pocket while carrying other clothes items to pay for at the till. the reason why i stuck it there was i had other bags etc so was afraid i would drop it. while queuing a lady behind me asked me a question and i was trying to help her so when i went to pay i forgot about it and just paid for other items. i walked out the door and was jumped on and brought back in.

i have never ever robbed anything, and am responsible professional working parent. i am in early stages of pregnancy and v tired and suffering from morning sickness so although no excuse i just didnt realise the implication of carrying the item in my pocket to the till.. i went into complete shock then and could hardly talk except to repeatedly say sorry and say it was a genuine accident.

however the garda were called, and i was told i would receive a summons.

i am completely up the walls about this. is there anything i can do to sort this out rather than appearing at court ? i fully accept it was a stupid thing to do to put the mascara in my pocket but of course i had meant to pay for it so at the time i was more concerned about dropping it and having to queue again.

also what is the delivering procedure for this type of summons ?
is it in person or by post ?
should i go to a solicitor about this?

also who appears in court on the day in question? is it garda, and store security ? what happens on the day ? what are the consequences - fine, conviction ?

if anyone could advise me id really appreciate it.

seamus

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