Should I pay a civil demand letter?

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Should I pay a civil demand letter?

I got a civil demand letter asking me $to pay 200 for shrinking on retail store the thing is that it was only $25 which I already paid and have evidence that I did no police were involved they gave me 30 days to pay and I really don;t know what to do. It’s a law group in another state. Should I pay? What happens I pay? Will I be in a theft database if I don’t? Will they take me to court?

Asked on November 15, 2017 under Criminal Law, Alaska

Answers:

M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 6 years ago | Contributor

In these type cases, civil demands are routinely made but they are rarely acted on. Accordingly, your chance of being sued is quite low for non-payment. Therefore, you can choose to ignore this letter, just know that if you don't pay this first demand, you will probably get second and for possibly an even higher amount. Again, you can choose to ignore it if you choose. If you should decide to make payment, then give no more than $50 or so and put this in a letter. You do not speak want to speak directly with these collectors directly as they are known for their threatening and intimidating tactics.

M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 6 years ago | Contributor

In these type cases, civil demands are routinely made but they are rarely acted on. Accordingly, your chance of being sued is quite low for non-payment. Therefore, you can choose to ignore this letter, just know that if you don't pay this first demand, you will probably get second and for possibly an even higher amount. Again, you can choose to ignore it if you choose. If you should decide to make payment, then give no more than $50 or so and put this in a letter. You do not speak want to speak directly with these collectors directly as they are known for their threatening and intimidating tactics. 


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