As as experienced Minnesota Shoplifting Attorney, I get loads and loads of questions, here is one of the ost common:
Mr Rolloff,
I recently received a civil demand letter in the mail from attorney Michael Ira Asen P.C stating I must pay $250 in 30 days.
I
was caught stealing from Walmart. It was my first time ever stealing
and it won't happen again. (The police were called and I was also given a citation.) I was also told I had to stay away from the sore for a year.
What if I am unable to pay the fine in time? Do I even have to pay it at all since there were no police involved?
Caught
The Truth
Retailers are allowed by
statute to make the demand. It is not a scam (as often suggested) but a
legitimate demand allowed by law. That being said, there is procedure to this ... and if you really want to part with you money, pay it. If not, you (or an experienced Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney) can respond to these demands ... and, if my experience is any indication, you WILL NOT have to pay anything. Additionally, paying this demand WILL NOT have any impact on the citation you received. You will still have to go to court to answer for this allegation.
Sure, there is more I can say, so ... if you have any questions/concerns, please fee free to contact the Rolloff Law Office for FREE ANSWERS. Call Today: (612) 234-1165
If there is one thing I know, personally, is that everyone makes mistakes—especially young ones.
One thing to be careful about: children and teenagers involved in criminal activity are prone to long-lasting penalties that could impact the rest of their lives. As and experienced Minnesota Juvenile Criminal Defense Attorney, I can help provide the support - legal and otherwise to your child and your family - and make sure the potential penalties don’t damage the future.
What to Expect
Minnesota law defines a "juvenile" as a person between the ages of 10 and 17. When a juvenile commits a crime, the laws, procedures and the consequences are different than they are for adult criminals. For example, juveniles are not entitled to a jury trial or bail release.
Some of the most common juvenile crimes in Minnesota are:
- Alcohol Violations Involving Minors
- Drunk driving - "Not a Drop"
- Speeding, careless/reckless driving, and texting while driving
- Shoplifting/theft
- Employee theft
- Drug possession
- Obstruction of justice
- Disorderly conduct
Juvenile crimes can range from misdemeanors to felonies --- depending on the circumstances surrounding the crimes. In the most serious cases, the juvenile offender can be charged and punished as an adult and even sent to prison.
Many children don’t deserve harsh sentences because they are often unaware of the consequences of their actions. Common punishments for juvenile offenders include counseling and detention in a youth facility or juvenile hall. Having a criminal attorney to fight against the prosecution and keep the charges to a minimum is a must.
How to "Win" the Case
The offender’s age, criminal history, and the circumstances surrounding the crime determine a consequence. However, unlike criminal court, the intention is more focused on rehabilitation. Therefore, if we work together ... getting "help" before the judge makes his order, we can work to keep the ultimate consequences to a minimum ... keeping the individual's future path free of the "clutter" these wrong-doings could cause.
A Minnesota Juvenile Defense Attorney can ensure that a juvenile’s rights are not violated, and that they receive the support they need to grow. Call the Rolloff Law Office today, to set up a FREE CONSULTATION: (612) 234-1165.
