My sister got caught shoplifting today. She shoplifted less than 20 dollars, they told her she would have to pay a fine. She was arrested, taken to the police station, had her picture taken and was fingerprinted, and they took down her Social Security. They told her she does not have to go to court for this, but has ten days to appeal. She’s 19 years old and does not live in Louisiana, she’s just there on a trip. She called me to ask for help, but I am not familiar with the law in her state. I was wondering if anybody could answer some of our questions for me.
1) The first question is what does it mean she has ten days to appeal? If she doesn’t appeal what would happen?
2) Does she have a criminal record?
3) She’s not from Louisiana and does not know any good lawyers in Louisiana, would she need one for this?
4) About how much would the civil demand be for her?
Thanks so much for your help.