Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

You Hire A Lawyer. The first thing I, or any other breathing lawyer would do, is tell you to shut the hell up, do not say one word to anybody, especially the police, about your case, and above all else do not volunteer for a polygraph test. The lawyer you retain will argue your innocence at the right time and place, which is in front of a judge in a court of law. Remember, it is not up to you to prove you are innocent. It is up to them to prove you are guilty.

Your first question is too broad to answer in an email. You should have a consultation with a criminal lawyer to discuss your options. Most criminal lawyers give free consultations. Take one or two.

Your second question about the polygraph, however, deserves a direct, immediate answer. DO NOT take a polygraph exam without first consulting with a criminal lawyer experienced with polygraph issues. Period. End of story. The reason for this is way too complex for email, but you should know that polygraphs are not admissible in California courts because they are not reliable. You may believe you are being falsely accused, but the result of the polygraph can easily make it seem like you are lying. It's just too risky to do without a full understanding of your options. If you'd like to talk to me further about this, please don't hesitate to call at 310 393 0639. Good luck. Steve Mandell

It you mean you've been arrested and charged with a crime, you do nothing other than hire an attorney and follow his advice. If serious about doing so, feel free to contact me. Polygraphs are not admissible in court without all parties stipulating to their use, which seldom occurs for a lot of reasons.