Open Container in Maryland

[mdmom]

My son was issued 3 citations recently, one for cival offense of alcohol possession under age 21 also two criminal citations one for open container and one for littering, for dropping the cup he was holding. he was not holding a can/bottle, just a cup which the cop saw him pour out and put down. My question is with the two criminal citations, is there possible jail time? Do we need a lawyer?

[Mr. Knowitall]

I would never tall somebody, "Don't consult a lawyer" - in fact, I would suggest that anybody charged with a crime at least consult a criminal defense lawyer. A local lawyer will be able to give you a pretty good idea of the type of plea deal your son is likely to get from a prosecutor.

[usedbranflakes]

Most criminal defense laywers, even the top ones, have a free 15-30 minute consultation. Take advantage of it and take advantage of their expertise.

When I spent 2 years in court for my DUI, going once per month, I saw a great amount of difference in guilty pleas versus plea bargained guilty pleas. At no time did I witness a plea bargain where an attorney was not present.

...and there were a few funny times where I watched a defendant dig himself deeper when the attorney advised him to shut up. Stand next to your attorney and shut up until the judge addresses you. Say you are sorry and whatever your attorney tells you to say. Nothing more...