if you can't do the time, don't do the crime

Do not commit a crime or misbehave if you are unprepared or unwilling to accept the repercussions should you be caught. A: "Dad, I can't be grounded for a month, I need to see my friends!" B: "Yeah, well, you're the one who keeps breaking curfew. If you can't do the time, don't do the crime!" A: "Yikes, I just heard Tom is going to prison for eight years for committing burglary." B: "I have no sympathy for him. If you can't do the time, don't do the crime." Did you really think Mom and Dad wouldn't punish you for sneaking out—again? If you can't do the time, don't do the crime.