Open Container Laws in Massachusetts

[cbax94]

My question involves criminal law for the state of: Massachusetts

I recently got charged with having an open container in public. I had an open container of beer on the sidewalk. I have never been arrested or in trouble with the police. I am very worried and need to know whether this is a criminal charge or not. I have a court date for this week. A few important questions I have are:

When I apply for jobs, do I have to say I have been charged with a crime before?

Will this stay on my record permanently?

Is this a criminal charge?

Please, please please let me know! I have looked everywhere and cannot find a straight answer!

[flyingron]

Civil Motor Vehicle Infraction, not criminal.

[adjusterjack]

Civil Motor Vehicle Infraction, not criminal.

Hmm.

The vehicle statute applies to "in the passenger area of any motor vehicle."

https://malegislature.gov/Laws/Gener...r90/Section24i

Would be nice if OP posted the statute number on his citation.

[Mr. Knowitall]

The vehicle statute applies to "in the passenger area of any motor vehicle."

... Meaning "the area designed to seat the driver and passengers while the motor vehicle is in operation and any area that is readily accessible to the driver or a passenger while in a seated position...".

[Who'sThatGuy]

OP wasn't in a motor vehicle so Section 24I. "Possession of alcoholic beverages in motor vehicles" doesn't apply.

OP was on a sidewalk. So it would be a local ordinance.