Legal Question in Criminal Law in Michigan

How long do the police take to charge a person?

7 months ago my boyfriend was with his brother and a friend who were minors, and he was not. the friend told him to stop at his fathers work so he could get something from his car, and ended up breaking into another car. The security was called, and they chased him and got my licence plate, so i decided to call the police and report my car stolen. Obviously, they found out. This was my first time ever being in any kind of trouble, and i told them the truth and almost 7 months later i was told that he had been charged with breaking and entering, when he never left the vehicle, a misdemeanor and i was being charged with a felony of calling in a false police report.We were told that we were both have a warrent, and in 3 days we need to report to the jail. My question is how should we plea, and can the cops legally wait that long? Thank you very much.


Asked on 4/27/02, 12:47 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
Nancy Moore Nancy L. Moore, Esq.

Re: How long do the police take to charge a person?

Yes, unfortunately the police can take their time to get warrants. Do not give any statements to the police. They will try to trick you into a confession and anything you say WILL be held AGAINST you. Give your name and address only and then state that you want to speak to a lawyer. The police must stop questioning you at that point. You must sign the fingerprint card or you will be charged with a misdemeanor. Do NOT sign anything else -- like a waiver of your rights. Your silence will not be held against you. You will then be arraigned in front of a judge and you should both plead NOT GUILTY. If you cannot afford an attorney, ask the judge to appoint one for you. Most court-appointed attorneys are very competent and take appointments because they want to, no one is forced to be a court-appointed attorney. Should you have more questions, feel free to call my office (743) 591-3737 and I will be happy to help you. Good luck! Nancy L. Moore

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Answered on 4/27/02, 10:41 am
Eric I. Kutinsky THE MICHIGAN LEGAL TEAM, P.C.

Re: How long do the police take to charge a person?

Unfortunately the cops can take that long to issue a warrant. You should go to the police station and turn yourself in. Don't answer any questions. Anything you say will be used against you. The police often try to trick you into confessing and telling on others, DON'T SAY ANYTHING. Tell them you want an attorney, they have to stop questioning you at that point. You will then be arraigned and most likely be free to go on a personal bond. Feel free to call me to discuss the matter further. Tell everyone involved the same thing. Office (248) 737-7000 or 24 hour voice mail/pager (800) LAW-6685. Best of luck!

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Answered on 4/27/02, 2:34 pm


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