Legal Question in Criminal Law in Illinois

retail theft

my son age 17 was charged with retail theft in illinois. he took cd/cd player from target. target has sent me a notice that since he is a unimancipated minor, i am liable for the cost of the property plus damages. they retained the property and the total valued amount was less than $150.00. the notice is to pay $295.00. he is being tried as an adult not a juvinile. why am i responsible not him?


Asked on 10/31/07, 2:45 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
George Zuganelis Zuganelis & Zuganelis, Attorneys at Law, P.C.

Re: retail theft

You are responsible for your 17 year old son because he is an unemancipated minor. Under the criminal laws of this state your son is an adult at 17. However, this is not part of the criminal case. This is civil and your son is a minor under the civil statutes of this state. You can be sued for this, in which case the retail store can seek attorney's fees which can be several thousand dollars. A judge will give them the fees they ask for. This is a brief answer to a question asked. This is not to be construed as legal advice. For legal advice, please seek the advice of an attorney in your city or county.

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Answered on 10/31/07, 2:55 pm


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