Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Shoplifting

Hello. I was caught shoplifting about $12 worth of merch from walmart almost a month ago. The police were not called, i just had to sign a paper stating i was banned from the store. They took my pic & of the merch (i think for their own record) and told me i would receive a letter in the mail demanding $50- 500. I received the letter a week ago and sent a payment. My question is if anyone knows what else may happen? I am scared i will go to court but i have not received anything saying i will. Please help.


Asked on 7/28/05, 4:06 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Elena Condes LAW OFFFICE OF ELENA CONDES

Re: Shoplifting

The offense, unless you have a prior theft offense on your record, should be charged as an infraction. The District Attorney's office has one year to file charges against you for either an infraction or a misdemeanor. It may be that paying the restitution will be the end of it. Unfortunately, even though you have paid the restitution the District Attorney's office can still file criminal charges against you, but that would require them to contact the police and make a police report. Since that didn't happen at the time, it may be that the letter and payment will be the end of it. If you have any questions, please feel free to call.

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Answered on 7/29/05, 6:36 pm


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