Legal Question in Criminal Law in California
My husband, Shane and his friend Alex were arrested together following an arguement with another man. The man then called the police and told the police that Shane and Alex were trying to steal his car. The arguement took place at 3 am at our apartment building where we all live. My boss happens to know the detective in charge and the DA and was able to get them to release my husband on a DA reject for lack of evidence. I assumed they would release his friend Alex as well. I went to Alex's court date thinking he was going to be released only to hear that they have dropped the charge of Grand Theft Auto to Attempted Grand Theft Auto and have also added charges of Robbery and Unlicensed Driver. Alex is about to go to his prelim hearing on the 22nd. The cops never did any fingerprinting on the car even though I asked them to. They took statements from people. And they took a few pictures of the car. I don't believe they have enough evidence to proceed but I am worried that they will try to proceed. Alex is on probation but its not for any felonies. Do you think the DA will try to proceed with this case even though they have let their other suspect go due to lack of evidence? Should we try to get Alex a lawyer?
1 Answer from Attorneys
The short answer to the long question is...Yes. I assume he has a public defender and they are not doing anything for him...right ? Alex is charged with a Felony and a Strike....a very serious charge... However his case is resolved, it will be on his record the rest of his life... This is what I call a "life changer." If you want to speak with me further about this case , I can elaborate more regarding what needs to be done for Alex to try to obtain the best result possible. Sincerely...David Wallin