Can I waive a store’s shoplifting fine?
Get Legal Help Today
Compare Quotes From Top Companies and Save
Secured with SHA-256 Encryption
Can I waive a store’s shoplifting fine?
I’m a minor and was caught shoplifting at a couple of months ago. I was caught attempting to take 2 tank tops, which added up to a total of approximately $55-$60; I was given a fine of $425. I went into the store today to pay the fine and the sales clerk told me to call customer service to try and get it waived since it is my first time offese. So I was just wondering if it is possible to waive the fee or reduce it?
Asked on July 23, 2012 under Criminal Law, California
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
I am so glad that you wrote here. You are not obligated to opay the "fine" that the store says that you owe. They did not prosecute, correct? That is their remendy and you would not have to pay more than the value of the items plus any fine imposed by law. What you received is called a Civil Demand letter and while it is legal to send them you are not obligated to pay them. Speak with ana dult that you trust and let them help. Stires can not make deals with minors. Learn a lesson from this. Good luck.
IMPORTANT NOTICE: The Answer(s) provided above are for general information only. The attorney providing the answer was not serving as the attorney for the person submitting the question or in any attorney-client relationship with such person. Laws may vary from state to state, and sometimes change. Tiny variations in the facts, or a fact not set forth in a question, often can change a legal outcome or an attorney's conclusion. Although AttorneyPages.com has verified the attorney was admitted to practice law in at least one jurisdiction, he or she may not be authorized to practice law in the jurisdiction referred to in the question, nor is he or she necessarily experienced in the area of the law involved. Unlike the information in the Answer(s) above, upon which you should NOT rely, for personal advice you can rely upon we suggest you retain an attorney to represent you.