Smoking Marijuana in a Public NYC Park

[pomagranate]

My question involves criminal law for the state of: New York, New York City.

A 17 year old was arrested and issued a D.A.T. PL 221.10.01 for smoking marijuana with friends in a public NYC park.
Never having a problem with the Law before:
1) Does he need an attorney?
2) What are the penalties?
3) Practically speaking how is this handled best?
4) Should he plead guilty?
5) Plea bargain?
6) Ask for sealing records or anything else?
Thank you in advance for your timely reply.
Worried dad.

[Mr. Knowitall]

It makes sense to consult a lawyer. The charge is a Class B misdemeanor, and in New York it looks like pleading guilty will result in an adult criminal record for his crime. His lawyer can examine his background to help determine if he's eligible for diversion or deferral programs, and to try to assess how likely he is to behave himself over the course of a period of probation.