Underage, Got Cited for Open Container in California
This takes place in California.
Okay my friends and I were drinking at the beach, stupid I know, on a weeknight the other night, when police cruised by on ATV. They saw my friend smoking pot and me with a beer next to me so they stopped. We were very cooperative and gave them everything and told the truth on everything.
When the cop called me over, after taking my ID and writing some things down, the cop told me that he was going to "let me off easy". He cited me for "B+P 25620(a)", possession of an open container.
Now, I am underage but I did not get a MIP. He only gave me the ticket for open container, which the ticket says is an infraction. He told me something would come in the mail and that I wouldn't need to go to court, and that it would be like a parking ticket. He said repeatedly that I wouldn't need to go to court.
So I signed the ticket, and upon getting home I realize that he gave me a notice to appear.
So, will I just get everything I need in the mail, and just mail it in with a fine?
Anyone with a similar story that can tell me how it worked out for them?
Is there any way that they can see that I am underage and then therefore cite me with an MIP?
I know I got very lucky for only getting an open container ticket, will not be doing that again.
Re: Underage, Got Cited for Open Container in California
These are typically handled like a TRAFFIC citation, not a parking ticket. So, if you get something in the mail prior to court, it should contain information on what you can do to pay it off or contest it should you wish.
If you get nothing in the mail, show up at court when and where indicated on the citation.
- Carl
Re: Underage, Got Cited for Open Container in California
Cool thanks for your help. So theres no way that I can end up getting an MIP? Or can I?
Re: Underage, Got Cited for Open Container in California
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Quoting
elementboarder
Cool thanks for your help. So theres no way that I can end up getting an MIP? Or can I?
They can always amend the citation or complaint prior to trial. So, while it is POSSIBLE, it is not likely. It might be in your best interest to resolve it early (i.e. pay the fine ASAP) so that they cannot come back with an amendment. But, that's your call.
- Carl
Re: Underage, Got Cited for Open Container in California
Well, from the court's perspective, are you minor under 18 or minor between 18 and 21? If he cited you and you are minor between 18 and 21, then you can just pay the fine. If you are minor under 18, then it will be cited to juvenile court and you'll HAVE to appear, with your parents. There is no just "paying the fine."