Do I Have To Pay Civil Fine For Shoplifting Even After My Case Was Dismissed?

[joyjoy]

My question involves criminal law for the state of: texas

My shoplifting case was dismissed by the criminal court after i completed 24 hours community service. now the store sent me a letter claiming $500 for the civil fine or else they will persue the case in civil court. Do i have to pay this amount?

[Happy Trails]

Your criminal case is different from the civil demand letter that you received. This is to reimburse the store for their damages.

CIVIL PRACTICE & REMEDIES CODE - CHAPTER 134. TEXAS THEFT LIABILITY ACT

So, yes, they could sue you if you don't pay, which could result in the damages being higher.

[joyjoy]

but there was no damage to the store, since they got all stuff back.

[Happy Trails]

but there was no damage to the store, since they got all stuff back.

The store did suffer damages, even though they recovered their merchandise. These fines help reimburse the store for their costs relating to protecting their merchandise.

You cost the store man hours..... when they had to detain and process you because of the theft.

[joyjoy]

i really didn't intend to steal, the only reason i didn't go to trial was because of the dismissal, less money, less time.
if i pay the fine, it appears like a conviction.

[Happy Trails]

i really didn't intend to steal, the only reason i didn't go to trial was because of the dismissal, less money, less time.
if i pay the fine, it appears like a conviction.

No, this civil fine does not give you a criminal record. This is just a civil fine from the store that the state allows them to collect to recoup there losses. This is just between you and the store.

[joyjoy]

thank you, Happy Trails!

[Happy Trails]

thank you, Happy Trails!

You are welcome. Don't lose any sleep over it; pay the civil fine and it's over.