Legal Question in Criminal Law in Minnesota
I was caught stealing twice. The first place at H&M and the second at Sears. A week after getting caught at Sears I got a letter saying I had to pay a $50 fee for the damages. After I paid the fee I heard that you didn't need to pay for it. Now, a month or so later, I receive a letter from H&M saying I have to pay $82.95. I want to know if I have to pay for it? PLEASE HELP ASAP!!!
1 Answer from Attorneys
A merchant may seek civil damages for a theft even if the merchandise is required. However, paying the damages when a demand is made may also affect your criminal case and could be used as an admission of guilt. As a result, you should retain a lawyer to resolve the criminal case first.
A theft offense can be very serious. While any theft under $500 is a misdemeanor. Such an offense is still punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a $1000 fine. The collateral consequences of a conviction can also be extremely significant and preclude a person from finding employment where background checks are performed.
Often, if you have no prior offenses, a conviction can be avoided with a Stay of Prosecution. A Stay of Prosecution means that the offense is never recorded on your record and stayed for a certain periofd of time to ensure that you do not have another offense.
We can assist you in making sure that your record is not affected. Call 612-240-8005.
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