Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Accused of Fraud

I Family member was charged with welfare fraud of $400. We don't know what exactly she is being charged with, but the littel paper work she was given states it was ''Welfare Fraud of $400'' for obtaining aid. My question is how can I find out what exactly The D.A is charging her, how can I get a hold of the case documents? So I can see where she stands and what attorney to get....


Asked on 5/13/03, 2:08 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Jonathan Kelman Law Offices of Jonathan I. Kelman

Re: Accused of Fraud

You should speak with an atty asap! Please feel free to call me - JONATHAN I. KELMAN (310)286-1218.

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Answered on 5/13/03, 2:33 pm
Robert Miller Robert L. Miller & Associates, A Law Corporation

Re: Accused of Fraud

Thank you for your inquiry.

The count of welfare fraud over $400 actually is the charge. It sounds as though what you really want to get is the police reports and other supporting documentation. Unfortunately, if the case is here in California, the state's Penal code doesn't allow all of the information to be released to her directly, and not to a third party. Police reports and other "discovery" in a criminal case have to go through an appointed attorney or private criminal defense attorney first, and then after redacting sensitive information, can be released to your family member.

If you have the specific code section, and the court the case is pending out of, I can advise as to the minimum and maximum penalties, and the standard offers for that court.

I hope that this information helps you, but if you have other questions, want more information, or feel that you need legal representation, please feel free to email me directly at [email protected]. I'm happy to help in any way that I can.

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Answered on 5/13/03, 5:40 pm


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