Caught With a False ID During a Traffic Stop

[lawfacts]

A college student was pulled over for a traffic violation and, when getting her ID for the officer, she accidentally started to give him her fake ID. She did present her actual ID, but it was too late to keep the officer from seeing the false ID and she was charged with possession of a false ID. What is her punishment likely to be.

[Mr. Knowitall]

She should consult a criminal defense lawyer, as it is often possible for a college student with a clean record to get a diversion program, deferral or non-criminal disposition for this type of offense. Realistically speaking, if her record is clean, she's at worst likely to get probation, fines and court assessments -- but if she can avoid a conviction, she should do so.