False Accusations of Stealing
My question involves criminal law for the state of: Missouri
I'll preface this with an appreciation for your time if you read my complete post. It is a bit long but, I wanted to be as detailed as possible in hopes of receiving the best advice possible.
I delivered pizzas part-time for about a month, however, it wasn't working out for a number of reasons so I didn't show up for a shift (it was a second job and only for extra money). Six hours after I was supposed to be there a manager from a different store. who also happens to be the the boyfriend of the manager at my store, knocks on my door and yells at me about missing work. I don't get much out but an "ok" before he's stormed off back to his vehicle and drives off. I'm quite upset and shocked at the way my absence had been handled; a phone call would have been sufficient. I decide to allow things to settle and plan to return to my store for my last check on the payday that is coming up in a few days.
Payday comes, I bring in my hat and shirt to exchange for my last paycheck. At this time the manager informs me that she will also need the car-topper (the hideous lighted sign that goes on the car when you deliver pizzas). I inform her that I don't know what she's talking about and relay that I don't have any sign of theirs. She informs me that I won't be receiving my final check until I have returned the 'missing sign' which she claims was seen inside my vehicle by the manager who had come to my house a week earlier. I reiterate the absurdity of the allegations and exit the store without returning my uniform or receiving my paycheck.
I return home and write a letter to the franchise office about the unprofessional actions of their managers. I detail the unfolding of events and request for my paycheck. Two days after mailing the letter I receive a phone call from the district manager telling me I can go pick up my paycheck. (I am aware that they were unable to hold my paycheck but, I was disturbed by the accusations of being in possession of the car sign so I wrote the letter anyway) I return to the store and speak with an assistant manager who trades me my paycheck for my uniform and I leave the store. End of story, or so I think.
About a week later a uniformed officer comes to my house questioning me about the sign. I reiterate my innocence and he asks to take a look around my house. I agree because, again I've never brought the damn thing home and the only thing he's going to find is a messy apartment. Satisfied with his search he takes my number and tells me he'll call if he needs anything else.
Fast-forward about three weeks (this past weekend) and I receive a summons in the mail with the charge of stealing and a court date in a little less than a month. I can only assume it has to do with the pizza sign because that is the only issue I have ever had. I have already begun to contact lawyers through their websites with my case but I'm new to the legal system. I've never had any legal trouble as an adult other than a single speeding ticket almost four years ago. I'm wondering where I should go from here. Their allegations are completely fictitious. I was never in possession of the sign other than during my job duties and I returned it ever night. The only evidence they can claim to have are the false statements by both managers that claim they saw it in or on my car. What disturbs me most is that two lying idiots can waste the time of so many people for no reason whatsoever. Is there a possibility to sue them successfully? I plan to fight this to the end as I am 100% innocent and I know that this is going to cost money. Are there certain aspects I should look for in a lawyer? If it is possible to sue them should I seek a lawyer that can defend me and proceed with any other civil action? What should I expect both from a lawyer and the court system? Are there things I can do to help them before I meet with one?
If you've made it this far I thank you and look forward to any responses.
Re: False Accusations of Stealing
This is a small claims matter, (I'm assuming) and one that can be easily settled.
Just show up at court and plead your innocence. There is no need to pay a lawyer vast sums of money for this.
I can't think of any valid counter-claim you could have against them except for meanyness, and I don't think that will hold up in court.
I know it seems like a big deal, but it's really not that big a deal. When you go to court, dress decently, don't get emotional, but tell your side of the story when asked.
Good luck.