Legal Question in Civil Rights Law in California

about 2 weeks ago I stole a charger for sears worth $19.99. I left the store successfully, but realizing that I worked a few stores away from Sears and that I go in there often to use the restroom, i decided to return to Sears and bring the merchandise back. When I reached the store, an LP employee spoke with me, asked me to give him the merchandise back, told me to **** off and to not come back or he would process me. I agreed and left. Later on in the day, i'm guessing they were working on another theft case because they walked right by my store and made eye contact with me. a few minutes later the LP employee i spoke with walked into the store I was working and asked me to come back with him to fill out some paperwork. I agreed and they had me fill out paperwork stating i could not return to that Sears location for a year and that i would receive a letter in the mail in a few weeks with a fine worth no more than $50. The letter came in from the Neal C. Tenen Law Corporation demanding $400. I made the mistake of calling them with questions concerning the fine (from what I read, they are now under the impression that I am worried and will continue to send letters because they can possibly receive payment from me). Any advice on what to do in this matter would be greatly appreciated!

-One last question: I know that they will attempt to contact me, but If I just continue to ignore them, will they begin to contact my family (mother, father, siblings)?

THE POLICE WERE NOT INVOLVED IN THIS SITUATION.

thank-you!


Asked on 10/17/13, 1:56 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

You ignore the reality that the store can, and likely will, file criminal charges and have you arrested whether you pay them or not. Focus on that instead of 'ducking' the store and thinking you can solve your problem by arguing who said what.

If and when you get notice or criminal charges, by getting a letter from the DA or be being taken into custody by police, feel free to contact me for legal representation.

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Answered on 10/19/13, 1:40 pm


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