"Would it make sense to consult a lawyer?"
*** Generally, I suggest that ANYONE facing criminal charges consult with an attorney, but in this case I see little benefit to that. You have already signed an admission of guilt and, from your post, are clearly guilty. Since this is a relatively minor charge and the repercussions are already determined, I see little benefit in obtaining an attorney. There really isn't much to 'plead' down to.
"At the arraignment if I plead not guilty and then later change to guilty will my punishment be worse."
*** Theoretically, no. In reality, maybe. Your 'game' would cost the county more time and money and the prosecutor might be less 'lenient' as a result of it.
"Does the Walmart security person have to testify in person at the trial if I go that route?"
*** Based on your own statement and admission, his statement isn't really required.
"If he does not show up is the case dismissed?"
*** No. The prosecution would just go on the signed admission.
And your previous post:
"About how much of a fine?"
*** No one knows since it is set by the court. Usually a few hundred $$.
"Any likelihood of jail?"
*** Probably not.
"How long do I have a police record for?"
*** This will be on your 'record' forever, or until you are able to get it vacated. For this process, go to:
http://www.leg.wa.gov/RCW/index.cfm?fuseaction=section§ion=9.96.060
"Is this the kind of thing I have to say I have been convicted of a crime on job applications etc?"
*** Probably not. Most applications ask if you have been charged or convicted of a felony. This is a misdemeanor and the answer would be no. However, if they ask have you been charged or convicted of ANY crime, then you would need to answer yes.
"Walmart got their goods back undamaged why do I pay them?"
*** State law allows the merchant to pursue civil action against the thief to help recover some of their costs of 'loss prevention'. This is the cost of the security, cameras, etc. and has little to do with the value of the actual item taken. This is provided by the RCW you cited:
"RCW 4.24.230
Liability for conversion of goods or merchandise from store or mercantile establishment, leaving restaurant or hotel or motel without paying -- Adults, minors -- Parents, guardians -- Notice.
(1) An adult or emancipated minor who takes possession of any goods, wares, or merchandise displayed or offered for sale by any wholesale or retail store or other mercantile establishment without the consent of the owner or seller, and with the intention of converting such goods, wares, or merchandise to his own use without having paid the purchase price thereof shall be liable in addition to actual damages, for a penalty to the owner or seller in the amount of the retail value thereof not to exceed one thousand dollars, plus an additional penalty of not less than one hundred dollars nor more than two hundred dollars, plus all reasonable attorney's fees and court costs expended by the owner or seller."
Further information:
You were likely charged under the following:
"RCW 9A.56.050
Theft in the third degree.
(1) A person is guilty of theft in the third degree if he or she commits theft of property or services which (a) does not exceed two hundred and fifty dollars in value, or (b) includes ten or more merchandise pallets, or ten or more beverage crates, or a combination of ten or more merchandise pallets and beverage crates.
(2) Theft in the third degree is a gross misdemeanor."
Penalty:
"RCW 9A.20.021
Maximum sentences for crimes committed July 1, 1984, and after.
(2) Gross misdemeanor. Every person convicted of a gross misdemeanor defined in Title 9A RCW shall be punished by imprisonment in the county jail for a maximum term fixed by the court of not more than one year, or by a fine in an amount fixed by the court of not more than five thousand dollars, or by both such imprisonment and fine."