Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

41.27 LAMC drinking in Public

This passed Wednesday I was cited for drinking in Public as I walked with a group of friends to a club in Hollywood. However I was the only person who was pulled to the side and cited even though there was another person wearing the same costume as I was. I did not have alcohol in my posession even though the officer says he saw me with it and there was a bottle on the curve. He didn't even allow me to plead my case. I'm going to school to try and get into Sherriffs/ Police Department, but with this on my record the chances of that happening seem impossible. I need to fight this ticket, any advice. Please help before my dream is ruined


Asked on 11/03/08, 9:21 pm

5 Answers from Attorneys
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

Re: 41.27 LAMC drinking in Public

Advice? Get an attorney if it is actually important to you to have a clean record. Do you really think you can 'fight' this against an experienced prosecutor? A little free anonymous advice is unlikely to make you into a courtroom expert.

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Answered on 11/04/08, 1:48 pm
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

Re: 41.27 LAMC drinking in Public

Advice? Get an attorney if it is actually important to you to have a clean record. Do you really think you can 'fight' this against an experienced prosecutor? A little free anonymous advice is unlikely to make you into a courtroom expert. BTW: you're going to find that any large proffessional PD will ask you about arrests, not just convictions. You're going to have to explain this to them, even if you get off without conviction.

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Answered on 11/04/08, 1:49 pm
Ryan P. McClure The Law Offices of Ryan P. McClure

Re: 41.27 LAMC drinking in Public

The best advice is to hire an attorney and get the charge reduced to an infraction. Feel free to contact me if you would like to pursue this matter.

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Answered on 11/05/08, 12:55 am
Michael Stone Law Offices of Michael B. Stone Toll Free 1-855-USE-MIKE

Re: 41.27 LAMC drinking in Public

While I always encourage people to fight their tickets, this isn't the kind of offense that's likely to disqualify you for the police academy.

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Answered on 11/03/08, 10:01 pm
Jacek W. Lentz Law Offices of Jacek W. Lentz

Re: 41.27 LAMC drinking in Public

I think you greatly exaggerate thinking this charge is the end of your dreams. This is not anything very serious - it could happen to the best of us.

That said, you should fight the charges if you feel strongly about the situation. First, I would retain a lawyer. Second, I would line up witnesses willing to come forth and support your version of what happened. A diligent lawyer could help you do that to successfully defend you.

Feel free to give me a call if interested in legal help.

Jacek W. Lentz, Esq.

310.273.1361

www.lentzlawfirm.com

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Answered on 11/04/08, 3:15 am


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