Worried in Wisconsin

[Kaaatzzz]

My 15 year old son was accused of shoplifting at (dept. store) and only given a civil citation by police. It requires no court appearance unless we want to dispute and that a fine be paid. We want to dispute, therefore do I need to hire an attorney to do so? Thank you...

 

[army judge]

You might meet with a local attorney and discuss your son's options.
After some deliberation you can then make the right choice for your boy.
Whatever you do, don't allow him to plead guilty until you've discussed the situation with an attorney.
I'm sure you'll like what your attorney shares with you.

 

[disagreeable]

Generally, you are not accused and cited absent compelling evidence. I suggest you talk to store LP and bypass your son.

 

[mightymoose]

You will have the best results if you speak with an attorney about this and nobody else.
You likely have a good chance of making this go away with legal assistance.
If you simply pay the fine they demand without question then you are playing into their hand.