I am a minor who got arrested for ahoplifting. I had a letter sent to me demanding I pay a civil fine or else a civil suit MAY be filed. Will they really sue or can i saftelt ignore the letter?
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I am a minor who got arrested for ahoplifting. I had a letter sent to me demanding I pay a civil fine or else a civil suit MAY be filed. Will they really sue or can i saftelt ignore the letter?
18478007597
Asked on October 6, 2016 under Criminal Law, Illinois
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 7 years ago | Contributor
You received what is known as a "civil demand" letter. These demands are routinely made but rarely, if ever, acted upon. Accordingly, the chances of your being sued are slim; you can ignore it if you want. Just be aware that if you don't pay, you will probably get second letter and it will likely request a higher amount. AOnce again, you can choose to ignore it. However, if you decide not to, pay no more than a nominal sum depending on the value of the merchandise (e.g. about 10-20% of wht is being asked). Handle this by letter, as these people are notorious for their threatening tactics so you don't want to speak with them on the phone.
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