Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

my friend has been charged as a co defendant in a burglary and rec. stolen property case. My friend has not been in trouble with the law for 11 years and has never had burglary charges. The other guy has a burglary wrap sheet as long as your arm, he is currently on probation. Can my friend be sentenced to less time if convicted along with this other guy or will they be given the same sentence?


Asked on 9/10/09, 3:59 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Robert Marshall Law Office of Robert L, Marshall

This question is impossible to answer without a complete review of the case. The sentence depends on many factors, including the circumstances of the crime.

Usually, a person with a lengthy criminal history will get a harsher sentence. The codefendant is on probation, so he could also get additional time in that case.

However, even though your friend hasn't been in trouble for 11 years, his past could come back to haunt him -- for instance, if he has a prior conviction that constitutes a "strike" under the Three Strikes law, which could increase his sentence.

Read more
Answered on 9/10/09, 6:51 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Criminal Law questions and answers in California