Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

I was charged with Burglary-2nd Degree (F) for shoplifting. I had zero intention to steal anything: I was shopping with my hands full of clothes and I was walking near the exit when my husband called. I spaced out and walked to the exit to answer to get better reception but triggered the security alarms. Security detained me, grilled me about stealing, then police came and arrested me. I speak really bad English (my husband is helping me write this) so I couldn't really explain to them what happened.


Asked on 3/02/14, 12:01 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Joe Dane Law Office of Joe Dane

Sorry, but if the police were involved, there is a good chance it will be referred to the DA for prosecution.

Get an attorney ASAP - they may (but no guarantee) be Abe to talk to the prosecutor before try file charges. If it cannot be stopped, your attorney can appear in court on your behalf and represent you for the best possible outcome.

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Answered on 3/02/14, 12:08 pm
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

Well, your 'story' is your defense in court, to the extent it helps a little. If you weren't already given a date for you to appear in court, you will receive a letter from the DA with a date.

Every crime carries potential �time� upon conviction. You�ll learn the actual charge[s] filed, and get copies of all the police reports and prosecutors� evidence, when appearing for arraignment at the first court hearing. The charges actually filed by the prosecutor will determine how much �time� could potentially be imposed.

If you don't know how to represent yourself effectively against an experienced prosecutor intending to convict, then hire an attorney who does, who will try to get a dismissal, charge reduction, diversion, programs, or other decent outcome through motions, plea bargain, or take it to trial if appropriate.

If serious about hiring counsel to help in this, and if this is in SoCal courts, feel free to contact me. I�ll be happy to help fight and get the best outcome possible, using whatever defenses and sympathies there may be. I�ve been doing these cases for many years.

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Answered on 3/02/14, 5:52 pm


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