Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Charged with vandalism but I did not commit the crime

I was with the party who did commit the crime. I was called into the police station to give a statement. I gave a false statment stating that I only knew one of the two people involved. This was the biggest mistake I have ever made. A warrant was issued for my arrest and I had to turn myself in (which was the most embarrassing thing I have ever done). Now, I have a court date and have no idea what's going to happen. I want to tell the truth, but I dont know if its too late. I also wanted to know what my punishment would be for giving a false statement. I was trying to protect a family member that was on probation by not telling the police their name, but now Im faced with this dillema. I am willing to face the consequences for lying which I should have never done, but I have no idea if any of this will be brought up in court or if they will just address the vandalism charge in which I had nothing to do with. I have no idea what to expect.


Asked on 7/08/09, 1:07 am

3 Answers from Attorneys
Jacek W. Lentz Law Offices of Jacek W. Lentz

Re: Charged with vandalism but I did not commit the crime

One thing is certain - you need to discuss the details of your case in a confidential conversation with an attorney. Most criminal lawyers will make themselves available to you for initial consultation for free. Do not attempt to handle this matter by yourself any further as it is apparent that you are likely to hurt yourself. The fact that you admitted to lying to police in this forum was a mistake which tells my you need a lawyer asap.

Call a couple of attorneys to see who might be best for you.

Jacek W. Lentz, Esq.

213.250.9200

www.lentzlawfirm.com

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Answered on 7/08/09, 9:43 pm
David M. Wallin Law Offices OF David M. Wallin

Re: Charged with vandalism but I did not commit the crime

Do yourself a favor....speak to a qualified criminal defense attorney. As a former Deputy District Attorney, I have handled 100's of cases like yours. I don't know what court your matter is in, but if we can take your case, we would be interested in talking further about the particulars of your case. You shouldn't have to have a conviction on your record for the rest of your life for something you didn't do. We can deal with issue of you not telling the truth to the police. Don't worry about that. You can reach me at www.wallinlaw.com. David Wallin

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Answered on 7/08/09, 1:31 am
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

Re: Charged with vandalism but I did not commit the crime

The answer to your question[s] is that you now need to hire an attorney to defend you, unless you know how to effectively do so yourself, in court against a prosecutor trying to put you in jail. You may have defenses and 'sympathies' that can be used, and your attorney may be able to negotiate a deal for you to avoid jail, reduce the charges, etc. If this is in SoCal courts, feel free to contact me.

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Answered on 7/08/09, 1:19 pm


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