Legal Question in Civil Litigation in California
penal code 490.5 b and c
I was caught stealing something
worth $29. They said I have to pay a
fine of $350, which I am fine with
because I deserve it. I was just
wondering what will happen after I
pay the fine. Will this be on my
record? Do I have to appear in court
and perform community service?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: penal code 490.5 b and c
Frequently stores will send such a threatening letter, take your money, then file criminal charges with your payment as a 'confession' that can be used against you. Nope, not fair ... life isn't.
It sometimes can work to have an attorney contact the store's attorney to negotiate a written agreement including a waiver of their right to file. The fees for doing that are far less than defending against criminal charges. Contact me if interested in doing so.
Re: penal code 490.5 b and c
You need to ask an attorney that practices criminal law.