Shoplifting Incident from 17 Years Ago

[jxyaaj]

My question involves criminal law for the state of: Wisconsin

This incident happened in 1995 when I was 19. I was caught shoplifting in Yonkers. Police was called, got my picture taken, and a citation. I don't think I got finger printed. I failed to take care of this incident - never paid citation or went to court. This is my first and last offense.

Fast forward to now, finally trying to get this resolve. First, I called to see if there is a warrant for my arrest and there isn't any. I called the court house to get the status of this incident so I can resolve it and was told that I was already found guilty of retail theft (they didn't tell me if this was misdemeanor, felony, etc although I still want to know) by default of no show to court and no payment of my citation. They didn't tell me I have to pay my citation and when I ask, said I could send them payment still. Given this situation, should I just pay the citation or consult a lawyer first?

And yes, I know it was bad of me to leave this unattended for this many years.

Any opinions would be appreciated.

[indybail]

Sounds like it might have been rendered into a civil judgement. You can check your credit report, but I doubt that it would still be there after 17 years.