Criminal Defense

Facing theft or stolen property charges in California is a serious legal matter. One of the most common questions we hear at Flores Legal Allies is: “If I return the property, will the charges go away?” It’s a fair question. In many situations, the accused did not intend long-term harm and may try to make things right by returning what was taken. Unfortunately, the legal system doesn’t always see it that way. Returning stolen property is not a get-out-of-jail-free card, but it can play a significant role in how your case is handled—from charging decisions to sentencing and restitution. At our offices in San Diego and Los Angeles, we help clients navigate criminal charges with clarity and strategy. We explain when returning stolen property might help your case, what it doesn’t do, and how an experienced criminal defense attorney can advocate for the best possible outcome. What the Law Says About Theft and Possession of Stolen Property California has several statutes that deal with theft-related offenses. The most common include: Penal Code § 484 – Theft (also called “larceny”): Unlawfully taking someone else’s property. Penal Code § 487 – Grand theft: Theft of property valued at more than $950. Penal Code § 488 – Petty theft: Theft of property valued at $950 or less. Penal Code § 496 – Receiving stolen property: Knowingly receiving, buying, or concealing stolen property. Theft and possession of stolen property can be charged as misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the value of the property, how the theft occurred, and the person’s criminal history. Does Returning the Property Mean Charges Will Be Dropped? No, not automatically. Once a theft has occurred, returning the property does not erase the crime. In California, a crime is considered complete once the property is unlawfully taken—even if it is later returned. However, returning stolen property can work in your favor, depending on the circumstances and how your defense attorney presents it to the court or prosecutor. What Returning the Property Does Not Do Let’s be clear about what returning the property does not accomplish: It does not undo the original theft or criminal act. It does not prevent charges from being filed. It does not guarantee leniency from the prosecutor or judge. It does not prevent the victim from seeking restitution for any loss or damage. That said, it may help reduce the severity of your charges or influence how the prosecutor and court handle your case. When Returning Property Can Help Your Case 1. Before Charges Are Filed If you return the stolen property quickly and voluntarily, especially before the police are involved or charges are filed, it may influence the prosecutor’s decision to: File reduced charges (e.g., petty theft instead of grand theft) Offer pre-filing diversion Decline to file charges altogether (less common, but possible) This is especially true in first-time offender cases and low-value thefts, such as shoplifting, roommate disputes, or borrowed property misunderstandings. 2. As Part of a Plea Deal Prosecutors may consider the voluntary return of stolen property as a mitigating factor during plea negotiations. It can support a resolution such as: Diversion programs Reduced jail time or probation No-contest plea to lesser charges Avoidance of a felony conviction Your defense attorney can use this gesture to demonstrate remorse, cooperation, and good faith. 3. At Sentencing If the case goes to court and you’re convicted, returning the property may persuade the judge to: Reduce the sentence Impose probation instead of jail Waive or lower fines Allow for early termination of probation later on Judges are required to consider mitigating factors at sentencing, and returning the property may show rehabilitation and acceptance of responsibility. Restitution vs. Return of Property It’s important to distinguish between returning the property and paying restitution. Even if the physical item is returned, the victim may still be entitled to financial compensation for: Damaged or diminished property value Lost income or time Emotional distress (in some cases) Costs to repair or replace the item In cases where the property is not returned or is returned in damaged condition, courts will order restitution as part of sentencing. What If You Didn’t Steal the Property But Have It? If you’re charged under Penal Code § 496 (receiving stolen property), returning the item may still help your case—especially if: You didn’t know the property was stolen You acted quickly once you realized it was stolen You cooperated with authorities In these situations, your defense attorney can argue that you lacked the intent necessary to be criminally liable and may use the return of the item as evidence of good faith. What Prosecutors and Judges Consider Prosecutors and judges will consider several factors when evaluating whether the return of stolen property should impact your case: Timing – Was the property returned immediately or after arrest? Voluntariness – Did you return it on your own, or after being confronted? Condition – Was the item returned in usable condition or damaged? Intent – Did you intend to permanently deprive the owner, or was the incident a misunderstanding? Criminal history – First-time offenders are often treated with more leniency. At Flores Legal Allies, we use these factors to build a strong defense narrative that shows your side of the story in the best possible light. The Role of an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Returning stolen property on your own may seem like the right thing to do—but without legal guidance, it can complicate your defense. Saying the wrong thing, returning the property through the wrong channel, or making an admission can strengthen the prosecution’s case. Our role as your legal ally is to: Advise you on whether and how to return the property Communicate with the alleged victim or law enforcement when appropriate Negotiate with prosecutors for dismissal or charge reduction Present mitigating evidence during plea negotiations or sentencing Protect your rights at every step We’ve helped clients across San Diego and Los Angeles turn things around—even after a serious mistake. Common Misconceptions “If I return it, it

Social media platforms have become an inseparable part of daily life. We share photos, comment on posts, and react with emojis—often without a second thought. But if you’re subject to a restraining order, even seemingly harmless activity online can carry serious legal consequences. In California, yes, social media posts can count as violating a restraining order, depending on the content, context, and the terms of the order. At Flores Legal Allies, we represent clients across San Diego and Los Angeles who are navigating complex criminal and restraining order matters. Many of our clients are surprised to learn that even a “like” or tagged post can be used as evidence of a violation. We’ll explain how social media behavior is viewed by California courts, what to avoid if you’re under a restraining order, and what to do if you’ve been accused of violating one. Understanding Restraining Orders in California A restraining order (also called a protective order) is a legal order issued by a court to prevent contact between individuals. These orders are common in cases involving: Domestic violence Harassment Stalking Threats or intimidation Depending on the case, a restraining order can prohibit: Direct contact (in person, phone, text, or email) Indirect contact (through third parties or public communication) Being within a certain distance of the protected person Possession of firearms Visiting certain places (home, school, workplace) Violating any of the terms of a restraining order is a criminal offense under California Penal Code § 273.6. How Social Media Can Violate a Restraining Order Modern restraining orders often include language that prohibits all forms of contact, including digital or electronic communication. That includes Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), Snapchat, LinkedIn, and other platforms. Here are ways that social media activity can violate a restraining order: 1. Tagging or Mentioning the Protected Person If you tag the protected person in a post, comment, or photo—even if it’s not hostile—it may be viewed as an attempt to contact them. Courts have ruled that this kind of digital interaction can constitute a violation. 2. Messaging or Replying via Social Media Sending direct messages, replying to stories, or commenting on posts can be considered direct contact, especially if the restraining order prohibits all communication. 3. Posting Content Aimed at the Protected Person Even if you don’t tag or mention them by name, a post that clearly refers to the protected person or situation (e.g., subtweeting, veiled threats, or public accusations) may be seen as an indirect violation of the restraining order. 4. Encouraging Others to Contact the Protected Person If you post something that leads others to harass or contact the protected person on your behalf—even indirectly—it can be seen as a violation through a third party. 5. Using Fake Accounts to Monitor or Engage Creating a fake profile to view, message, or interact with the protected party may not only violate the restraining order—it could lead to additional stalking or harassment charges. Real-World Examples Let’s look at some real-life scenarios that can lead to legal trouble: Example 1: A person under a domestic violence restraining order posts a selfie and tags their ex-partner, writing “Miss you.” Even if the tone is friendly, the act of tagging violates the no-contact clause. Example 2: A man posts a vague message like “She’ll regret this” with a photo of a courtroom. The ex-partner sees the post and believes it’s aimed at her. If the court agrees, this can be viewed as intimidation. Example 3: Someone shares screenshots of past conversations with the protected person, making negative comments. Even though it’s a public post, it can be interpreted as an indirect attempt to harass or shame. What Must Prosecutors Prove? To convict someone of violating a restraining order, the prosecution must prove: A valid restraining order was in place The defendant knew about the order The defendant willfully engaged in conduct that violated the terms The act was not accidental or unintentional Social media violations can be tricky because the intent behind a post is often subjective. But if the judge believes the post was meant to communicate with or about the protected person—especially in a harassing or threatening way—it may be enough to convict. Penalties for Violating a Restraining Order via Social Media Violating a restraining order is a criminal offense under Penal Code § 273.6, and the consequences can be serious—even if the violation was digital. First Violation (Misdemeanor): Up to 1 year in county jail Up to $1,000 in fines Possible probation Court-ordered counseling or anger management Aggravated Violation or Repeat Offense: May be charged as a felony Up to 3 years in state prison Increased fines Possible loss of firearm rights If the post causes fear, emotional distress, or includes threats, the court may impose harsher penalties—even for a first offense. Defenses to Social Media-Based Violations At Flores Legal Allies, we’ve successfully defended clients accused of restraining order violations based on online conduct. Common defenses include: 1. Lack of Intent If you posted something publicly without intending for the protected person to see or interpret it as directed at them, we may argue that the action was not willful. 2. No Direct or Indirect Contact We may demonstrate that the post did not tag, message, or refer to the protected party and was general in nature. 3. Mistaken Identity In some cases, someone else may have used your account, or a third party may have tagged the protected person without your knowledge. 4. Protected Speech If the post was related to a public matter and not harassing or threatening, it may be protected by the First Amendment. However, this is a narrow and complex defense that must be handled with care. What to Do If You’re Accused If someone claims you violated a restraining order through a social media post, do not respond online or attempt to contact the person. Instead: Take screenshots of the post and surrounding content. Avoid deleting anything unless advised by your attorney (deletion can look like an

When someone is convicted of a misdemeanor in California—whether by plea or at trial—the next critical step is sentencing. Many people assume that a misdemeanor always leads to a simple fine or short jail term, but sentencing decisions are complex and rest heavily on judicial discretion. Judges must weigh legal guidelines, individual circumstances, and public safety concerns before determining a sentence. At Flores Legal Allies, we represent individuals facing misdemeanor charges in San Diego and Los Angeles, and we pride ourselves on not only building a strong defense but also guiding our clients through sentencing with clarity, strategy, and compassion. Our approach focuses on helping the court see the person behind the charge—and advocating for outcomes that reflect rehabilitation, not just punishment. We explain how judges make sentencing decisions in California misdemeanor cases, what factors they consider, and how your defense attorney can influence the result. What Is a Misdemeanor Under California Law? A misdemeanor is a criminal offense that is less serious than a felony but more serious than an infraction. Misdemeanors are punishable by: Up to 1 year in county jail Fines up to $1,000 (though some offenses may have higher fines) Informal probation (also known as summary probation) Additional penalties such as community service, restitution, restraining orders, or counseling programs Common misdemeanor offenses include: DUI (first offense) Petty theft Vandalism Simple assault Domestic battery Trespassing Possession of controlled substances (in some cases) Judges are given a framework to operate within, but they also have broad discretion to tailor sentences to the facts and the individual. The Legal Framework for Sentencing California courts are guided by the California Penal Code, case law, and the California Rules of Court when imposing sentences. For misdemeanors, judges are generally required to consider: The nature and seriousness of the offense The defendant’s criminal history The impact on the victim The likelihood of rehabilitation Public safety concerns Mitigating and aggravating factors Unlike felonies, where judges often choose from low, middle, or high terms for prison sentences, misdemeanors offer more flexible sentencing options. A judge can order jail, probation, fines, or a combination of these. Step-by-Step: How a Judge Approaches Sentencing 1. Review of the Conviction The judge starts by looking at the specific statute the defendant was convicted under. Some misdemeanors have mandatory minimums or statutory enhancements, while others allow complete discretion. 2. Consultation of the Probation Report (if ordered) In more serious cases, especially if jail time is being considered, the court may request a probation report. This document is prepared by a probation officer and includes: The defendant’s background and criminal history Victim impact statements Sentencing recommendations Evaluation of the defendant’s risk to the community This report can significantly influence the judge’s decision. 3. Consideration of Aggravating Factors Aggravating factors are circumstances that make the offense more serious. These might include: Use of violence or weapons Targeting vulnerable victims (e.g., elderly or children) Prior convictions for similar conduct Offense committed while on probation or parole Aggravating factors increase the likelihood of a harsher sentence, such as jail time or extended probation. 4. Consideration of Mitigating Factors Mitigating factors are circumstances that lessen the severity of the conduct or show that the defendant deserves leniency. Examples include: No prior criminal record Remorse and cooperation with authorities Voluntary completion of counseling or treatment Restitution made to the victim Offense was out of character or due to temporary circumstances Strong presentation of these factors by your attorney can lead to reduced penalties, or in some cases, alternatives to jail such as community service or diversion. 5. Hearing from Both Sides The judge listens to arguments from both the prosecutor and defense attorney. This is a critical moment. A strong defense presentation can humanize the defendant and influence the outcome. Defense counsel may: Highlight mitigating factors Present letters of support or evidence of rehabilitation Argue for alternatives to incarceration Challenge inaccuracies in the probation report or DA’s statements 6. Victim Input (If Applicable) In cases involving victims, the court may also consider a victim impact statement. While the victim does not decide the sentence, their input can affect how the judge views the offense. Possible Sentencing Outcomes Depending on the circumstances, a judge may impose one or more of the following: Jail Time Up to 364 days in county jail. For some offenses, the court may split jail time or allow work-release or weekend jail programs. Summary Probation Typically lasting 1 to 3 years. May include: Counseling or classes (e.g., anger management, drug treatment) Community service or CalTrans work Stay-away orders or protective orders Regular court check-ins No-contact conditions Probation violations can result in re-sentencing or jail time. Fines and Fees Most misdemeanors come with base fines of $200 to $1,000, plus penalty assessments that significantly increase the total cost. Restitution If the offense involved a victim, the court may order restitution for property damage, lost income, or medical expenses. Diversion or Deferred Entry of Judgment In certain cases—especially for first-time offenders—judges may allow diversion. This involves completing classes or treatment, after which charges may be dismissed. Can Sentencing Be Negotiated? Yes. In many misdemeanor cases, sentencing is part of a plea bargain negotiated between the defense and prosecution. Your attorney may negotiate: Reduced charges in exchange for a guilty plea Probation instead of jail time Enrollment in diversion in lieu of conviction Credit for time already served At Flores Legal Allies, we advocate aggressively at every stage to negotiate favorable sentencing outcomes—or fight unjust sentencing recommendations in court when necessary. Can You Appeal or Modify a Sentence? In limited situations, you can: File an appeal if the sentence violates the law or was based on procedural errors Request modification of probation terms or fines, especially if circumstances change (e.g., illness, financial hardship) Request early termination of probation after completing conditions successfully Expunge your record after completing sentence and probation Every case is different, and it’s crucial to consult an attorney to understand your post-sentencing options. Why Representation Matters at Sentencing Even if you

Probation offers an alternative to jail time, allowing individuals convicted of crimes to serve their sentence under supervision while living in the community. But probation can still feel restrictive, intrusive, and stressful. It often comes with conditions like mandatory check-ins, travel restrictions, community service, drug testing, and fines. So, it’s no surprise that one of the most common questions we hear at Flores Legal Allies is: “Can I end my probation early if I’ve been on good behavior?” The answer is yes—in many cases, California law allows individuals to petition the court for early termination of probation. But not everyone qualifies, and the process can be more complex than it seems. The steps involved, and how having an experienced criminal defense attorney can increase your chances of success. What Is Probation in California? Probation is a court-ordered period of supervision given in place of, or in addition to, jail or prison time. In California, there are two types of probation: Misdemeanor (summary or informal) probation – Typically lasts 1 to 3 years and does not involve supervision by a probation officer. Felony (formal) probation – Usually lasts 3 to 5 years and requires supervision by a probation officer. Probation often includes several conditions such as obeying all laws, staying away from certain people or places, completing community service, or attending counseling. Can Probation Be Ended Early? Yes, under California Penal Code § 1203.3, a judge has the authority to modify, revoke, or terminate probation at any time during the probationary period. If you’ve completed all the terms of your probation and maintained good behavior, the court may consider ending it early. What Qualifies as “Good Behavior”? “Good behavior” means more than just staying out of trouble. It includes: Complying fully with all probation conditions Attending all required court dates and meetings with your probation officer (if applicable) Paying all fines, fees, and restitution Completing any court-ordered programs (e.g., DUI school, anger management) Demonstrating rehabilitation and a law-abiding lifestyle The court wants to see that you’ve taken responsibility for your actions and no longer need monitoring. When Can You Request Early Termination? Although California law doesn’t set a specific minimum time, courts typically expect you to complete at least half of your probation before considering early termination. For example: On a 3-year probation term, you would generally need to serve at least 18 months. On a 5-year felony probation, you’d want to wait until you’ve completed 2.5 years. That said, judges have discretion, and there are situations—such as for employment, immigration, or family hardship—where a judge may consider an early termination sooner. Why End Probation Early? There are several valid reasons to request early termination: Job or professional licensing restrictions: Some careers require you to be off probation before getting hired or certified. Immigration consequences: Remaining on probation can negatively affect visa renewals, green card applications, or naturalization. Travel limitations: Probation may prevent travel, especially out of state or country. Housing difficulties: Landlords may refuse to rent to individuals still on probation. Personal closure: Ending probation early gives you the chance to move forward with your life. For many clients at Flores Legal Allies, early termination helps restore their sense of freedom, dignity, and opportunity. The Process for Requesting Early Termination Step 1: Complete All Terms of Probation Before filing a motion, ensure that all court-ordered conditions are met. This includes paying all fines, finishing classes, completing community service, and any other specific terms. Step 2: File a Motion for Early Termination Your attorney will file a formal motion with the court requesting early termination of your probation. The motion must explain: Your compliance with all terms Evidence of rehabilitation and good behavior Reasons why ending probation serves the interests of justice Step 3: Notify the District Attorney and Probation Department They must be given an opportunity to respond. In some cases, the DA may oppose the motion, especially if the original offense was serious or if the probation officer recommends against it. Step 4: Attend the Court Hearing You and your attorney will appear before a judge. The court may ask questions about your conduct and reasons for early termination. If your attorney presents a strong argument, the judge can grant the motion at the hearing. What Happens If Early Termination Is Granted? If the judge grants early termination, you are no longer under court supervision, and your probation is officially over. In many cases, your attorney can also petition the court for an expungement (also known as a dismissal under Penal Code § 1203.4) at the same time. This process clears your conviction from your public record, which can greatly improve your ability to find employment, housing, or licensing opportunities. Can Early Termination Be Denied? Yes, the court may deny your request if: You haven’t completed all probation terms You’ve had recent violations or new arrests The original offense was particularly serious or violent The DA objects to the motion and the court agrees You haven’t served enough of your probation If denied, your attorney may be able to refile the motion later, especially after showing further rehabilitation. Why Legal Representation Matters While it’s legally possible to file the motion yourself, your chances of success are significantly higher with the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney. At Flores Legal Allies, we help clients: Determine eligibility and timing Prepare compelling motions with supporting evidence Represent them at the hearing with persuasive arguments Coordinate with the probation officer and DA when needed Seek expungement immediately after early termination Our approach is not just about filing paperwork. It’s about building a story of redemption, responsibility, and readiness to move forward. Common Questions About Ending Probation Early Can I file for early termination if I’ve had a probation violation? Possibly. One violation doesn’t automatically disqualify you, but it may make approval more difficult. Courts want to see a sustained period of compliance. Can I expunge my record after probation ends early? Yes. In most misdemeanor and many felony cases, once your

In today’s digital world, debit cards are everywhere. They’re used to pay bills, buy groceries, and send money in a matter of seconds. But while this convenience is great, it also comes with legal risks—especially when it comes to unauthorized use. Many people don’t realize that using someone else’s debit card—even once and without intent to steal permanently—can lead to serious criminal charges, including felony charges. At Flores Legal Allies, we represent clients in San Diego and Los Angeles who are facing criminal allegations ranging from petty theft to white-collar fraud. What makes our firm different is that we treat every client as a human being, not a case file. We bring calm to stressful legal situations and help our clients move forward with clarity and confidence. We’ll break down when and how using someone else’s debit card without permission can become a felony, what the law says, what prosecutors must prove, and how to protect yourself if you’ve been accused. What the Law Says About Unauthorized Use of a Debit Card In California, using someone else’s debit or credit card without permission is a criminal offense that falls under various sections of the California Penal Code. The most relevant laws include: Penal Code § 484e – Possessing or using someone else’s access card (including debit cards) Penal Code § 484g – Using a stolen or counterfeit access card to obtain money, goods, or services Penal Code § 487 – Grand theft, if the value of the property stolen exceeds $950 Penal Code § 459 – Burglary, if you enter a property intending to use the card to commit theft California defines “access cards” broadly, including debit cards, credit cards, and ATM cards. Can You Really Face a Felony for Just Using a Debit Card Once? Yes. Even a single use of someone else’s debit card without permission can be charged as a felony, depending on: The value of what was taken Whether the card was stolen or fraudulently obtained Your criminal history Whether the act involved planning, deceit, or multiple transactions If the transaction involved $950 or more, the prosecution may pursue felony charges for grand theft. Even if the amount was under $950, prosecutors may still file the charge as a felony if they believe there was fraud or identity theft involved, or if the defendant has prior convictions. Real-Life Examples of How This Can Happen These are common scenarios that can unexpectedly lead to criminal charges: A roommate or friend uses a debit card left on the counter without asking – Even if they believe the owner wouldn’t mind, this can be considered theft or unauthorized use. A child or teen uses a parent’s or relative’s debit card online without permission – This is more common than people think and can still result in charges. You find a lost debit card and try to “just get gas” with it – Even a small charge is considered a criminal act. You use a card “loaned” to you by someone else—but it’s not in your name – If the card owner reports it as stolen or revoked, you could be accused of access card fraud. The Difference Between a Misdemeanor and a Felony In California, unauthorized use of a debit card can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. This is known as a “wobbler” offense—meaning the prosecutor has discretion based on the facts of the case. Misdemeanor Penalties May Include: Up to 1 year in county jail Fines up to $1,000 Probation Restitution to the victim Felony Penalties May Include: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in county jail (or state prison for more serious cases) Fines up to $10,000 Formal probation Strike under California’s Three Strikes Law (in rare cases involving violence or burglary) Remember: even if you didn’t steal the card or didn’t spend much money, intent matters. If prosecutors believe you intended to defraud or deceive, they may file felony charges regardless of the transaction size. What Must Prosecutors Prove? To convict someone of unauthorized debit card use, prosecutors must prove: The card belonged to someone else You did not have permission to use it You used it knowingly and willfully You obtained something of value through its use They may use evidence such as surveillance footage, receipts, phone records, text messages, and bank logs. In some cases, statements you make to police or others can also be used to prove intent—even casual comments. What If You Thought You Had Permission? Intent is a key element. If you honestly believed you had permission to use the card, that could be a strong defense. For example: You were told you could “use the card if needed” The cardholder gave you their PIN in the past and didn’t revoke access There was a misunderstanding between friends or family However, vague verbal permission or assumptions can be hard to prove in court. That’s why it’s critical to have an experienced criminal defense attorney who can build a compelling case on your behalf. What to Do If You’ve Been Accused If you’ve been accused of using someone’s debit card without permission—or suspect you may be under investigation—do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney present. Even if you’re just “helping with an investigation,” your words can be used against you. Here’s what you should do: Remain calm – Do not panic or attempt to contact the person accusing you. Do not explain or justify your actions to the police – This often makes things worse. Gather any evidence – Texts, emails, or voicemails showing permission or communication. Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately At Flores Legal Allies, we understand how quickly these situations can spiral out of control. We’ve represented clients who were falsely accused, misunderstood, or unaware they were breaking the law. We act quickly and decisively to protect your record and your reputation. Possible Defenses Depending on the facts of your case, we may be able to argue: You had permission to

Most people believe they’ll never have to deal with the police beyond a traffic stop. But the truth is, law enforcement can approach anyone—at any time—for questioning. Whether it’s on the street, at your home, or during an investigation, how you respond can have serious legal consequences. Unfortunately, many people make critical mistakes when questioned by police, not out of guilt—but out of fear, confusion, or a desire to appear cooperative. At Flores Legal Allies, we defend clients in San Diego and Los Angeles who are facing criminal charges or have been swept into investigations after an encounter with police. We become more than just attorneys—we become your allies, helping you stay calm, informed, and protected in the face of legal uncertainty. The most common mistakes people make when interacting with police, why these mistakes matter, and how to handle police questioning the right way. Mistake #1: Talking Too Much Many people believe that if they just “explain the situation,” everything will be fine. They may feel they have nothing to hide, or they might hope the officer will let them go if they appear cooperative. But the reality is: what you say can and will be used against you—even if you’re innocent. Police are trained to ask questions in ways that may seem casual but are actually designed to gather evidence. Anything you say, no matter how harmless it seems, can be taken out of context, misquoted in a police report, or used to connect you to a crime. What to do instead: Politely invoke your right to remain silent. You can say, “I want to cooperate, but I would like to speak with an attorney before answering any questions.” Mistake #2: Not Asking If You’re Free to Leave Officers may approach you and begin asking questions in a way that makes you feel like you’re not allowed to walk away—even if you’re not under arrest. People often stay and talk because they assume they must. But unless you’re being detained or arrested, you are legally free to leave. What to do instead: Ask clearly and calmly, “Am I being detained, or am I free to leave?” If the officer says you’re free to go, you can walk away. If they say you’re being detained, ask for clarification and legal representation. Mistake #3: Consenting to Searches Police may ask if they can “take a quick look” in your car, home, or backpack. Even if you have nothing illegal, you might feel pressured to say yes. But if you give consent—even under pressure—you’re giving up one of your most powerful rights under the Fourth Amendment: protection against unreasonable searches. Once you give consent, anything they find—legal or not—can be used as evidence. And if you later try to challenge the search in court, the fact that you agreed can undermine your defense. What to do instead: Respectfully decline. You can say, “I do not consent to any searches.” You are not required to justify or explain why. Mistake #4: Thinking You Can “Clear Things Up” One of the most dangerous mistakes is believing that talking to the police will help clear your name. This belief often leads people to: Admit to minor wrongdoing, thinking it will earn leniency Provide incomplete or inaccurate timelines Offer alibis that can later be contradicted Unknowingly place themselves at the scene of a crime You might be unknowingly helping the police build a case against you. Even if you’re not the target at the beginning, your words can make you a suspect. What to do instead: Don’t try to talk your way out. Contact a criminal defense attorney and let them speak on your behalf. Mistake #5: Believing the Police Are “On Your Side” It’s common for officers to use friendly conversation or phrases like: “We just want to hear your side.” “You’re not in trouble—we’re just talking.” “Help us help you.” This tactic is called a pretext interview, and it’s designed to make you feel safe enough to talk without a lawyer. But make no mistake: the officer’s job is to gather evidence, not protect your interests. They are not required to be honest. In fact, the law allows police to lie to suspects during questioning. They may falsely say: “We have your fingerprints.” “Your friend already confessed.” “We saw you on camera.” What to do instead: Assume that anything you say is being documented, and that the officer’s role is investigative—not protective. Politely ask for an attorney before continuing. Mistake #6: Agreeing to a “Casual” Interview Without Legal Counsel Sometimes police will invite someone to the station for a “quick chat” or to “help with an investigation.” People often accept out of fear of appearing guilty—or simply out of intimidation. But showing up voluntarily doesn’t mean your rights disappear. If you’re being questioned about a crime, you should never do it alone. What to do instead: If you’re contacted by police and invited for questioning, consult a criminal defense lawyer immediately. A good attorney can determine whether it’s wise to speak at all—and if so, under what conditions. Mistake #7: Making False Statements If you choose to talk to police and then lie, you can face serious legal consequences—even if the lie seems small or irrelevant. Under California Penal Code § 148.5, making a false report or knowingly providing false information to law enforcement is a crime. You could face: Misdemeanor charges Up to 6 months in jail A permanent criminal record Even worse, a false statement can destroy your credibility if the case goes to court. What to do instead: If you choose to speak, be truthful—or better yet, say nothing until you speak with your attorney. Mistake #8: Failing to Understand Your Miranda Rights The famous Miranda warning (“You have the right to remain silent…”) only applies when you are in custody and being interrogated. If you’re not officially in custody, police don’t have to read you your rights. Many people assume that because they weren’t read their rights, their