Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

I commited a crime of petty embezzlement and I haven't been charged but the police want me to come in for questioning. It is obvious and I don't know my legal rights or what to do. I need help ASAP and I want to know what the punishment for the crime is. The item was valued at 300 dollars and I have a clean record with no prior offenses of any kind. What should I do.


Asked on 2/10/14, 11:05 pm

4 Answers from Attorneys

Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

A little free advice if not already too late: exercise the 5th Amendment right to SHUT UP and do NOT talk to police or anyone about the case except with and through an attorney.

While this isn't a 'capital case', it certainly carries potential �time�, so handle it right. No amount of free 'tips and hints' from here or elsewhere are going to effectively help in a legal defense. 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 2/10/14, 11:12 pm
Steven Mandell Law Offices of Steven R. Mandell

I agree with most of Terry Nelson says, but I write only to say that proactive legal assistance right now may be able to help you avoid the filing of criminal charges altogether. If you'd like to speak to me, don't hesitate to call for a free consultation. Good luck. Steve Mandell 310 393 0639

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Answered on 2/11/14, 6:55 am
David M. Wallin Law Offices OF David M. Wallin

I've been handling these cases for over 26 years. As someone who is a Former Deputy District Attorney, my advice is to NOT speak to law enforcement. When my law office handles these matters, WE speak to the detective over the case, and NOT our client. We know what to say and what not to say. If you want to ask me any questions, either over the phone or in person, I offer all my clients a FREE consultation, to go over all the facts so I can give you all the information you need. I wish you well.........David

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Answered on 2/11/14, 7:38 am
Zadik Shapiro Law Offices of C. Zadik Shapiro

To add to what has already been said, not only should you not talk to law enforcement, but you should not be making admissions or discussing the case on line. Talk to only an attorney about the details of the case and you ought to get an attorney ASAP.

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Answered on 2/12/14, 10:42 pm


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