Mom o'stupidkid
Junior Member
What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? California
My 18 year old son stole a bottle of liquor from a local grocery. He was caught outside the store and the bottle was returned. He was arrested and given a ticket that it is a petty theft misdemeanor/charge. His court date is set for next month. What kind of plea can/should he make?
Yesterday, he received a letter from an attorney stating that he needs to pay $325 for a civil suit case that has not yet been filed by the grocery company. It threatened him with a lawsuit which could result in even more attorney fees and court costs if he didn't pay the money or make arrangements within 20 days.
Does he need a lawyer for either of these situations?
It seems to me that this small theft (though it is still shameful and illegal) should be small claims activity. How much monetary damages can they legally ask for?What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)?
My 18 year old son stole a bottle of liquor from a local grocery. He was caught outside the store and the bottle was returned. He was arrested and given a ticket that it is a petty theft misdemeanor/charge. His court date is set for next month. What kind of plea can/should he make?
Yesterday, he received a letter from an attorney stating that he needs to pay $325 for a civil suit case that has not yet been filed by the grocery company. It threatened him with a lawsuit which could result in even more attorney fees and court costs if he didn't pay the money or make arrangements within 20 days.
Does he need a lawyer for either of these situations?
It seems to me that this small theft (though it is still shameful and illegal) should be small claims activity. How much monetary damages can they legally ask for?What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)?