If a family member got caught stealing and received a civil claim from a lawyer, what should they do?
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If a family member got caught stealing and received a civil claim from a lawyer, what should they do?
The civil claim amout is ridiculously expensive, is there anything we can do about this?
Asked on January 5, 2016 under Criminal Law, Arizona
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 8 years ago | Contributor
The fact is that you don't have to pay a civil demand for shoplifting since most stores do not enforce them in civil court (i.e. wil not bother to sue); it typically is not worth the time and attorney expense. That having been said, if the store does file a suit and and wins a judgement agains you, you could end up being responsible for the money and ordered to pay the store's attorney's fees.
Basically, this is a decision that you'll need to make. However, my advice is not pay unless the store actually files suit against you (and not just because you recieved a simple demand letter from a law firm).
Note: You will probably receive another letter and possibly for a higher amount but again you can choose to ignore it.
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