Go and explain yourself if something happens: turning yourself in (自首) can cut a sentence by up to 40%, and for lighter offenses can reduce it more or even waive punishment; "outwaiting the statute of limitations" is a dead end
- High value
- Evidence A
- Keeps you free
- Free
- Takes minutes
- Some willpower
In plain words
Turning yourself in (自首) can cut a sentence by up to 40%, and for a lighter offense you may not be punished at all. Telling the truth only after the authorities come to you can still cut it by up to 20%. Running away or flatly denying everything gets you none of this. Hoping to hide for a few years until the case expires does not work either: once a case has been filed, the time you spend in hiding does not count toward the limitation period.
Translated from the Chinese original. Original book, section 8, tip 6. This section describes legal rules, mostly mainland China’s. It is general information, not legal advice; for your own case, talk to a lawyer. Content may be out of date and rules differ by place. When you actually deal with an agency, a doctor or a court, follow what local officials, doctors and lawyers tell you. Disclaimer