A few weeks ago I was at a football game and I was stopped by a cop who asked for some ID. I had been holding an empty can so I ended up getting an “on-site” arrest, which basically was a written report & a mandatory appearance in court.
I considered hiring an attorney but I’m not sure if its even worth it. On the other hand one of the biggest penalties is a 3 month A.A course which I do not want on my plate. I spoke to a friend that got the same charge and they decided they are just going to go to court. I would like to just receive a few hours of community service and maybe a fine but I’m not sure how the court process works. Do I plea no contest?
Yes, I did something stupid. I don’t get in trouble like this and I’m not looking for a lecture. (I think an arrest was a slap on the wrist enough) Hopefully I can get some honest legal information from someone about how I should go about my court date/charge.
Thank you.
********This was in hillsbourogh County, FL
#1 by fangtaiyang on April 27, 2010 - 7:06 am
To gt off on the charge you will have to plea not guilty and have the case heard before a judge, or magistrate. The charge itself is a misdemeanor, but it can result in fines, court costs, and a suspension of your driving privilege.
#2 by No religion in this pub on April 27, 2010 - 7:56 am
I had the same thing happen to me when I was 19 ,and just last night I got a ticket for consumption of alcohol in a M/V as a passenger im 21 now so it’s not that bad. When I was 19 I was in possession of closed alcoholic beverages and was summons to court. I had no lawyer, but since it was my first offense i was let go with a small fine of $500 after talking to the prosecutor and pleading guilty. As long as you have no prior conviction and depending on your states statues on consumption and possession laws for underage drinking you will probably walk out of the court house with just a fine. But beware if you live in a zero tolerance state then punishment is that much more severe.