Theft and Robbery FAQs

Is it important to tell the truth to my lawyer?

You should know that it is very important to tell the truth because lying can cause more harm than good. Discussions with your attorney are protected, the lawyer receives the largest and most valuable information through the client, this being a major source.

What is the difference between arrest and conviction?

An arrest is merely apprehension and taken into custody an individual by the police. It will never mean that you have been found guilty of any crime. The prosecutor will let you know later if you are guilty of a crime or not. If the prosecutor decides to impute a crime, the charges may be dismissed at the end. Anyway you may face charges, attend the trial and be released. So, we must be clear that one has been arrested, not convicted, and has not been found guilty of any crime. A conviction is when you already filed with the court and was found guilty of a crime regardless of the level of severity of this and then it will reflect a conviction on your record, no matter if you spend time in jail or not because there are other ways to pay fine sentences such as, voluntary serviceid and others.

Do I have any benefits if I give myself voluntarily?

If you come before the charges are filed you may be able to avoid extradition. This is something positive and works to benefit the client. Judges see this act favorably.

If the police arrest a family member, can I send a lawyer to represent him/her?

Yes, you can do it but remember that the right to a lawyer is personal to the defendant which means that the defendant must request the right to counsel.

Can I be checked by the police if I am arrested?

Yes, the police do not need a warrant to check it in case you are arrested.

Are you entitled to an attorney at any time during a police interrogation?

You have the constitutional right to an attorney at the time of police interrogation. Remember that everything you say can be used against you; you can say that you will not answer any question until a lawyer is present.

Are there different types of thefts?

Yes, some types include:

• shoplifting, credit card fraud, petty theft, grand theft, identity theft and carjacking among others.

How do you define petty theft and grand theft?

Petty theft is a serious offense generally considered a misdemeanor. Being Grand theft a much more severe offense of stealing things with a monetary high value, a minor felony can be considered.