What to do if I was convicted of misdemeanor shoplifting a few months ago but have not been able to pay my fine or complete my service hours?
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What to do if I was convicted of misdemeanor shoplifting a few months ago but have not been able to pay my fine or complete my service hours?
My sentence was 7 days jail, or community service to have been completed by this month. I registered with the agency directed by the court for my CS but have not had the money to pay for the hours I must complete. In addition, the fees imposed relating to the matter have not been paid. I am worried about a bench warrant and want to avoid having to pay an attorney to clear any warrant, as I cannot serve jail time ( I take care of a 3 year old child daily).
Asked on November 11, 2013 under Criminal Law, California
Answers:
MD, Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 10 years ago | Contributor
If you could not pay, you need to work with the court with some amount you can pay each day or ask to borrow money from someone and pay that person back. Community service shouldn't cost any money so you can work with the court to see what can be offered to you. Contact your legal counsel and see what can be done because come next month the court may indeed issue a bench warrant or enhance any sentence they would have imposed.
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