Moral turpitude

[1313]

Jurisdiction

New York

If someone shoplifted from Shoprite and it was there first offense and the got a civil demand to pay 137.60 but can't afford it due to them not working, what can they do?

 

[adjusterjack]

Send $10 or more at a time as often as possible.

Talking about paying is not paying, paying is paying.

As long as the money is coming in you have a better chance of avoiding prosecution.

Give up smoking, drinking, and eating out until you pay this off.

 

[mightymoose]

Yup. You have the money somewhere. They will usually accept a payment plan. Adjust your spending priorities to fit it in.

But... If you don't have it then you just don't have it. You aren't required to pay it unless a judge orders it. Wait until it is affordable and pay later, or don't pay at all, it's up to you.

 

[shrinkmaster]

I am a Retail Theft Consultant and answer questions like yours daily. Make a payment arrangement and keep it. The consequences for not paying can be sever and long term (see links below)

A recent writing of mine - Parent Nook Forums

Civil Recovery

 

[Michael Wechsler]

Many attorneys suggest not paying a civil demand as a result of the odds against being prosecuted for what usually amounts to several hundred dollars. In your case it's actually a fraction of the amount I've seen. If you want peace of mind, you may be able to have a compromise agreement either in full or partial in full satisfaction. The choice is yours. Good luck.

 

[Michael Wechsler]

One other thought is the mention of "moral turpitude" which is a term most would not use except when immigration status is in issue. I'm wondering whether that is the real concern here.