Legal Question in Criminal Law in New York

Shoplifting Civil Recovery

My 13 year old daughter was accused of shoplifting $100 in goods at a mjor department store. The County police made her sign a statement, then called me and I picked her up.

Now a civil recovery agency is making a $500 demand of me on behalf of the store.

Should I negotiate a better deal, or play hardball and let them take me to court in Nassau County? I have lots of assets to protect and lots of time to go to court if I have to.

And Daughter has been straightened out.


Asked on 8/25/02, 2:16 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
James Kats James S. Kats, Esq.

Re: Shoplifting Civil Recovery

You can certainly negotiate the store down, on behalf of your daughter. The $500 is not cast in stone.

You should realize, though, you're not liable for her debts, unless you have signed a guarantee for her.

My other question is, Was your daughter convicted of the crime? It seems to me a statement taken from a 13 yo ought to be challenged vigorously and aggressively. If she's already pled guilty, it is too late.

For more info, [email protected] or call 718.273.6229.

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Answered on 8/26/02, 5:09 pm


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