Asked 2/10/2016 – El Paso, TX

I am 16 years old and I was caught shoplifting in a Wal-mart store about 3 weeks ago. Everything was worth about $50. They took a picture of me, asked me for my i.d. and address. I also had to sign some papers. There were no cops involved. So I was not arrested. I got a letter saying that I owe a fee of $150, my question is should I pay the fee? Will this go on my record? I’m regretful of my actions and it will not happen again. Any help is appreciated, BTW this was in the state of TX.

Answer

Who is this letter from? If it is from a law office in New York, then you received a civil demand letter. It has nothing to do with any potential criminal charges that may be filed against you. Any notification of a criminal charge will come from the police department or a court. Take the letter to a local attorney and have it reviewed.