Legal Question in Criminal Law in California
Is a suicidal threat criminal?
When I found out my bank took my funds without my authorization, I said ''I should get a gun and kill myself,'' and walked out. A few days later a detective called and left a message for me to discuss the above incident. Am I in trouble? I am not suicidal, I was just angry and sarcastic. Why is a detective involved? Do I need an attorney? Please advise ASAP as I need to return the call on before noon Pacific time.
4 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Is a suicidal threat criminal?
Saying anything at all to the detective except "Can I have my attorney call you", now that would be suicidal.
Don't return the call.
Re: Is a suicidal threat criminal?
If you'd like an attorney to discuss the incident with the detective first to ease your mind and determine the nature of his investigation then, you have made a prudent decision. You do not want to ignore him or else he can bring you "in" to question you. Contact me directly.
Re: Is a suicidal threat criminal?
It's not criminal, but if you seem likely to harm yourself you could be involuntarily committed for a psychiatric evaluation.
I agree with Mr. Bravos that you should not just ignore the call. The police are almost certain to follow up if they don't hear back from you. You may want to get a lawyer before this happens. If you do you should act quickly; the police are not likely to wait long before sending someone to your home and/or office to investigate.
Re: Is a suicidal threat criminal?
Sounds to me like your remark might have interpreted as a threat to the bank, not to yourself - maybe not. If yes, this could be quite serious.
You should get a lawyer involved. Keep in mind that often a detective's job is to incriminate you rather than being an objective fact finder or to help you. Having a lawyer will ensure that you are protected to the fullest extent possible.
Jacek W. Lentz, Esq.
310.273.1361
www.lentzlawfirm.com
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