District Of Columbia § 27-104 - Merchant’s options.
Full text of District Of Columbia D.C. Code § 27-104 — Merchant’s options., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 27-104. Merchant’s options.
27-104A merchant who suffers damages as a result of fraud, shoplifting, or theft, may recover the damages by submitting written demand to the alleged offender or the parent or guardian of a juvenile alleged offender.
The written demand shall:
Be delivered or mailed to the alleged offender, or parent or guardian of a juvenile alleged offender, at least 30 days prior to the filing of any suit for damages;
Specify the alleged criminal conduct and the damages incurred as a result of the conduct;
Specify the amount which the merchant is entitled to receive under this chapter and that if payment of this amount is made in accordance with the written demand or the terms of a written agreement between the merchant and the alleged offender or the parent or guardian of the juvenile alleged offender, within 30 days of the date of service of the demand, the merchant may bring suit for damages; and
Specify that if payment of the specified amount is not made, an agreement of payments is not reached, or payments are not made in accordance with the terms of an agreement, within 30 days of the date of service of the demand, the merchant may bring a suit for damages.
When the merchant receives payment of the specified amount or payment in accordance with the agreement for payments, the merchant shall deliver or mail an acknowledgement of payment letter to the alleged offender within 5 business days of receipt of payment.
Annotations
Source: official District Of Columbia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About District Of Columbia § 27-104
What does D.C. Code § 27-104 cover?
Section 27-104 ("Merchant’s options.") is part of the D.C. Code, the codified statutory law of District Of Columbia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite District Of Columbia § 27-104?
A common citation format is "D.C. Code § 27-104" (District Of Columbia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of District Of Columbia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the District Of Columbia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed District Of Columbia attorney.
How does District Of Columbia § 27-104 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in District Of Columbia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in District Of Columbia.