What To Do About A First "Offense" Shoplifting Charge

I was at a grocery store, went through check out, paid for my groceries but forgot some cold medicine that was ON my purse. Was talking to a checker friend on my way out and before (this may be an important point) BEFORE I got out the door, I was grabbed and taken to the office. This was at the same time as I was reaching for my keys and realized the boxes were on my purse.

Of course they wont believe me. I'm sure they've heard every excuse in the book.

So now they have me on a first offense (I'm 40. Never have stolen, my record is squeaky clean). They did not arrest me. Just wrote up a report and let me go. The total amount of the cold medicine was $16.

This was 3 months ago. I just now today got a demand from the stores attorney to pay $250. And that the payment of that does not release me from any future court dates etc...

Will I have to go to court for this? I'd like to tell the judge about being grabbed before I even got out the door and clear my record. But will they even listen to that? I can't afford any type of attorney. I can pay the $250 they want but... will they want more? What is the purpose of going to court or will I even have to go?:wallbang:

Thanks.

Oh, and I'm in California.

From what you say, the police were not involved and no charges were filed. The civil demand you received will be resolved with your payment, although they can sue you if you don't pay.

Quote:

---

Quoting Mr. Knowitall

---

From what you say, the police were not involved and no charges were filed. The civil demand you received will be resolved with your payment, although they can sue you if you don't pay.

---

Ditto! Pay the civil demand and put it behind you.