Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Over the weekend my fake ID was taken at a supermarket. They took it and wouldn't give it back, so after denying that it was fake for a little, I just left. The cops didn't come and I've heard that if they don't come to the scene then the chances of something coming from it are slim. I'm not from the area, nor do I got to school there, so I'm thinking that even on the slight chance that they do turn in the ID, it would be so much work for the police to do something about it since I'm not in their area. I know I'm stupid and shouldn't have gotten one in the first place, so no need to tell me that. I just want to know what can happen now since there is really no proof that I used it. Can I just get a fine and no record? Just community service? Get the judge to let me off (if I'm called in, that is).

I'm just so so scared and have never done anything remotely like this and I am so so regretful.

Please help!!


Asked on 5/31/11, 11:21 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Robert Marshall Law Office of Robert L, Marshall

It's impossible to predict what the police might do without a lot more information... and you shouldn't post any more details on a site like this where anyone, including the police, read it.

One of the major factors is the reason you had the phony ID and how you used it.

If you're under 21 and had a phony ID to buy booze, you could be charged with Business & Professions Code �25661. The maximum punishment is a fine and community service, but you would also lose your license for a year.

There are other possible charges, including misdemeanors that could carry jail time. While it's relatively unlikely the cops would try to track you down over a phony ID, I've seen large scale investigations when a lot of high-quality counterfeit drivers licenses start showing up. They might be especially likely to track you down if you had a convincing copy of the high tech drivers licenses DMV started using this year.

If you were using a false ID to pass forged checks or commit other financial crimes, you could be facing felony charges.

Bottom line: you shouldn't talk to anyone except a lawyer about this. If the police contact you, politely say you wont answer any questions without an attorney, then shut up!

Read more
Answered on 6/03/11, 11:26 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Criminal Law questions and answers in California