Possession Of Marijuana In Rhode Island

[hebert103]

ok so the other night I was out with a friend at 2 am and I went in to buy a cigar to roll a blunt with. There was a cop inside who saw me and followed me out to my car, then asked me where the weed was saying he had probable cause to search and that if I cooperated everything would be easier (yeah, right). I didn't know what to do so I gave him the weed (a gram) and he took it and the blunt, had me fill out an arrest sheet, searched my car and let me go. Detectives got in touch with me and wanted me to rat on someone, I am not going to so I will probably go to court. I reallllly cant have this on my record, it is my first and only offense ever, and if nothing else I need it expunged after a certain time. What should I do? Ask for probation, plead my case and hope for mercy (I am a honors third yr college student with a future in politics), see if they have conditional discharge (i dont think they do), or just plead guilty and take the heat. I really cant afford a lawyer and dont want this to be a huge deal with anyone knowing...please help and let me know what to do...thanks

[Gesha]

Hey, I would consider ratting on someone. I know that's bad, but the same thing happen to me 7 years ago and I only had a 2ft marijana plant on my balcony and I've been on a emotionally roll a coaster ride. I been denied jobs, education,and now they are conducting background checks for apartments. I was charged with felony. Get a lawyer. but, most of all, don't panic----think straight. Expungment takes 5 years before you can apply. So you have to wait 5 years after your probation. Good Luck. They can ruien your life. Think about not pleaing guilty.
I know from experience, I have never been able to find decent work and I'm 57. It's been 14 mos. since I've work. I can't pass a background check. So, think about this and get resources and a good lawyer.

[hebert103]

yeah i realize that would be my best bet to get off with nothing, but the problem is that i really dont know anyone who sells who isnt a friend of mine, and if you think i should give one of them up, well, thats not gonna happen. my real question was what i should plead in court if and when the time comes, and how i should go about getting probation or deferred sentence. A lawyer or judge that can answer this would really help, thanks.