Although I do not practice law in the State of California, here are my initial impressions.  First, since you do not state exactly how your wife is in trouble (i.e. is she being investigated?  has she been arrested?  if so, what has she been charged with) it is difficult to give you very specific advice.  What I can tell you, however, is that lack of intent is probably a defense to whatever crime she is being investigated for or charged with.  Therefore, I suggest that you and your wife consult with and/or retain a criminal defense attorney to discuss this matter in greater detail in the interest of evaluating this defense, as well as any others, that may exist.  The sooner your wife gets an attorney, more she will minimize the trouble she is in.  Good luck.

Has your wife been arrested?  Are there any court dates pending?  If so, which court is the case in?  Even though you paid cash, did you at least get some type of receipt, and/or a card from this person?

BARRY BESSER, www.besserlaw.com