Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Re: What if i did not know that it was stolen and i wanted to help a friend?

There are crimes of conspiracy to assist another to do a criminal act. Certainly you can be charged with conspiring to pass a stolen check. However, don't run scared. Talk to your attorney and be prepared to fight the case.

If you did not have an opportunity to steal the check, and the other person's finger prints are on the check, you've got a fighting chance.

Helping someone cash a check in and of itself isn't a crime. I'm getting ready to do it right now for an in custody client. He was found with his last check from his employer in his pocket when he was arrested.

I will not guess at what the sentence might be because you didn't give enough information. However I doubt you're looking at much more than a hand slap. Don't take an offer but look seriously at fighting it.

Lots of luck - Vic

Re: What if i did not know that it was stolen and i wanted to help a friend?

The posecution has charged you with a crime and you say you are not guilty. The DA must prove that when you helped your friend you knew that it was a crime and you were doing a criminal act and intended to violate the law. If the DA can prove it, then the question of punishment comes in. That depends on many factors including your past record if any, your attitude, who is the judge and who is the DA etc, etc.

Please call if you think I can help and visit my web page at www.goldfeinattorney.com

Re: What if i did not know that it was stolen and i wanted to help a friend?

The best thing you can do for yourself is to consult with a criminal lawyer in the area near where the case will be held. Much more information must be known in order to analyze your legal strengths and weakness, and then predict an outcome. Many lawyers give free consultations. You're welcome to call me if your case is in the LA area. Telephone (310) 393 0639.