Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

I went into Ralph's to get a drink and didn't end up buying anything. Went back to my car, and waited for 2 people. As I waited for them, they came out running with some stolen alcohol. I had just met them the night before from a party. This morning, the city police from the Ralph's came to my home address with accusations that I had stolen the alcohol. They had seen my license plate as I left the scene. My mother was home and said that the person looks like me... but never admitted it was me.

They have picture evidence of the 2 people from my car, and are accusing I was one of the people because we look similar. There are also pictures of me entering the store before them by myself.

I don't know the 2 people and no longer have a way of contacting them. I don't want to be wrong accused for something I didn't even do or get blame.

Feel free to give any legal advice for this situation. Thank you for your time.


Asked on 2/09/12, 5:52 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys
David M. Wallin Law Offices OF David M. Wallin

Most important advice is, SAY NOTHING TO LAW ENFORCEMENT. Simply, if they want to question you, invoke your rights and ask for a lawyer. Just say " I want a lawyer.". Say notyhing else. But I have several questions of you : 1) when the guys are running with the beer, do you drive them away from the location ? 2) did you know, the guys were going to steal when you drove to the location ? Whatever your answer to these questions by your attorney, NEVER answer these questions if put to you by ANYONE ELSE.

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Answered on 2/09/12, 7:55 pm
Brian McGinity McGinity Law Office

You need an attorney. First go hire an attorney. Second and extremely important if you are arrested before you get an attorney do not under any circumstances speak to law enforcement. Say, nothing except that I would like an attorney. If you don't have one yet they will get you a public defender so you can speak with them before you are interviewed. Do not under any circumstances speak to law enforcement without a lawyer for your interests being present. Next, find a way without telling anyone what happened to locate these two "friends." They might be your best bargaining chip. This is not going to just go away. Law enforcement will do something and you need to be prepared. If you hire an attorney early they may be able to work something out that keeps you out of trouble. The questions that Mr. Wallin has proposed are excellent, and I suggest you think about them. However, do not say anything to anyone about the answers to those questions except your attorney. Good luck

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Answered on 2/09/12, 8:17 pm


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