Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Re: Grand theft auto.

The penalty for that can vary depending on the circumstances. The maximum penalty for a simple felony auto theft isn't that much, it is things like guns, taking the car from someone, using ant force, etc that has the potential for making the offense more serious. The most important thing for them to know is that they should ask him a lot of questions on the phone if he calls because the phone calls from the jail are recorded. If thet can, they sgould consult with an attorney as soon as possible. If they can't afford an attorney their son will likely qualify for the public defender in San Francisco. If he was arrested last night he will likely be in front of a judge an appointed an attorney by tomorrow afternoon.

Let me know if you have any additional questions about the process generally and I'll be happy to try to answer them.

Good luck to your friend.

Re: Grand theft auto.

Prison. Have him get an attorney.