Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Police detective trying to contact me

A couple of months ago I was terminated from a company for stealing 600 bucks. A company investigator called me at work on the day I was termed and informed me that if I admitted guilt in writing and paid back the money they wouldn't take it to the police. I did and paid back the $600!

Now I have received a notice in the mail from a police detective asking me to contact him regarding a further investigation where as the company now believes or has some evidence I may have taken much more. I've heard thru the grapevine about 6 thousand bucks. I've not called this detective 'cause I've been told never to talk to the police without a lawyer.

Is this correct advice? I have no previous criminal record. I will not admit to stealing this money. But I'm sure the previous admission of taking the $600 bucks will not help!

What can a lawyer do for me? I am scared! Is a civil compromise advisable if they prove me guilty somehow???

Will the police come to my home to arrest me? Can a lawyer keep me from getting jail time??? Please help!


Asked on 7/02/04, 10:20 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys
George Woodworth Law Office of George Woodworth & Associates

Reply----re: Police detective trying to contact me

Hello---Thank you for your questions. First, you should seek the advice of an experienced Criminal Defense Attorney since the police are trying to contact you. Since you have already made incriminating statements, then make no more statements to the police, with or without an Attorney. A civil compromise is very unlikely for the same reason (previous statements). A good Attorney can discover what your possibilities are for settlement of their potential case against you. He can also probably determine what other monies or property is in question, and if your cooperation in the investigation could be of benefit to you. If you would like to discuss further, I have over 27 years of experience in this area. Attorney Woodworth (562) 754-7422

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Answered on 7/03/04, 12:27 am
robert nudelman criminal defense associates

Re: Police detective trying to contact me

The advice you have been given is absolutly correct. You should not speak with the police without a lawyer. The theft of $6,000.00 is a major felony for which the consequences can be dire. Please contact me at (800) 313-9619 if you have any further questions.

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Answered on 7/03/04, 11:18 am
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

Re: Police detective trying to contact me

'Don't talk' is the best advice you have been given. More people convict themselves by trying to be helpfull than DA's could ever prove guilty. You should have taken your own advice before admitting the $600. NOW, get an attorney immediately, so the police know you will not 'roll over' to new charges. It may avoid charges being filed. IF not, then at least having an attorney will maximize your chances of successfully defending charges. Contact me if you want to talk about hiring counsel to help you.

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Answered on 7/03/04, 3:17 pm


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