Illinois Criminal Code Of 1961 – 720 ILCS 5, Section 16A-7

I understand that the Illinois Criminal Code of 1961 – 720 ILCS 5, Section 16A-7 allows a store to collect money for civil liability pertaining to shoplifting, and that as the custodial parent I am liable for the amount they demand.

My question is this: Does this statute mean it's mandatory for the business to proceed with this civil liability, or does it mean that they have the choice of proceeding?

It's their choice.

It's kind of rare that they wouldn't proceed with it though.