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  1. #1
    Join Date
    Aug 2012
    Posts
    5

    Default Is it Necessary to Pay a Civil Demand Payment

    My question involves criminal law for the state of: California
    I did something stupid and was caught by the LP.
    Now I am awaiting my Civil Demand Letter, I cannot regret enough of what I did and have not been able to sleep or eat properly since. I feel terrible.
    Anyways, I have done my research and know that I will be receiving a Civil Demand Letter, I was cited by a police officer for Petty Theft 488 pc.
    I'm planning on hiring a lawyer and hopefully getting through this with a Diversion Program of some sort considering this is my first offense. Still wondering if I should plead (no contest or Not guilty?)
    My question is: Should I pay my civil demand when it comes in the mail? I've read a lot of stories and many people said they paid it to prevent further charges. But, I'm just wondering since I was cited by a police officer and have a court date, is it necessary to pay? Please help! Also any further advice on my case would be greatly appreciated! thank you
    P.S.: how do i find out if my county has a diversion program available?

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Jun 2006
    Location
    Massachusetts
    Posts
    24,521

    Default Re: Pay Civil Demand Payment

    The Civil Demand and any criminal charges are independent of each other. Neither will prevent the other. Having been cited and a court date issued does not make the Civil Demand go away; paying the Civil Demand will not make the court date go away.

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Sep 2005
    Location
    California
    Posts
    20,594

    Default Re: Pay Civil Demand Payment

    Understand that refusal to pay the civil demand can result in the claim going to collections and then you can probably tack on another $400-500 on top of the original demand.

    Also, keep in mind that not all jurisdictions have diversion programs for shoplifting and theft, so that may not be available where you committed the offense.

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