Legal Question in Criminal Law in Washington

Help Understanding Petty Theft

I recently received a letter in the mail informing me that I could settle a petty theft case by paying $236. At the bottom of the letter it says that this does not prevent a criminal prosecution. I have checked all of the county, superior, and municipal court offices and they don't have me in their system. I am scared and I don't want to get into any more trouble!! Since this is a private matter, and the letter says payment will settle the issue, will I still have to go to court?


Asked on 5/08/08, 7:11 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
James J. White, attorney Law Offices of Smith & White, PLLC

Re: Help Understanding Petty Theft

Yes, you will still have to go to court. The payment will only settle the civil matter between you and the store, not the criminal matter between you and the state or city.

At your service,

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Answered on 5/09/08, 6:49 pm


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