Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Felony Arrest Warrants

If you have set up a meeting with a private attorney to open up a criminal case while having a felony arrest warrant, Is the attorney mandated under any obligation to turn you over to the authorities?


Asked on 7/11/07, 4:03 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
David Kaloyanides David J.P. Kaloyanides, A Professional Law Corporation

Re: Felony Arrest Warrants

Even if you have not yet hired the lawyer but are only consulting with the lawyer, everything you discuss would fall under the protection of the attorney-client privilege. The lawyer is precluded by law from disclosing any information you provide in confidence. The lawyer may only disclose information if there is an immediate threat of harm to another. In other words, if you tell your lawyer you are going to go and kill someone, and the lawyer believes that you have the ability and truly intend to do it, the lawyer may, but is not obligated, to reveal that information to the police.

Other than that, however, the lawyer cannot reveal anything you say in confidence, even if you haven't hired the lawyer yet.

So the simple answer is "no". Not only is there nothing that requires the lawyer to turn you over, the lawyer is precluded from doing so. However, the lawyer cannot advise you to commit any crime, such as fleeing when you know you have a warrant.

If you would like to discuss your matter further, please contact me.

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Answered on 7/11/07, 4:12 pm
Edward Hoffman Law Offices of Edward A. Hoffman

Re: Felony Arrest Warrants

No. In fact, he is forbidden to do so.

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Answered on 7/11/07, 5:22 pm


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