Legal Question in Criminal Law in Connecticut

Trespassing

About two months ago, around 1am, me, and a friend of mine were sitting in my car on a driveway of a street. We were watching some cars on that street, as they would race past us. We were spectators to an event, which is not considered legal in the state of Connecticut. I did not participate in this; I was just observing it. Suddenly police officers showed up and threw spike strips and threatened all the present observers with teargas and told everyone to shut off and get out of their cars. We were put into a police car, asked for our licenses and other info and told that we were not being arrested this time, but would if we ever showed up again, and were handed tickets with the charge of trespassing the property of the business on the driveway of which we were parked.

I understand this is the smallest criminal charge, but it's still a criminal record. I am a college student with a clean driving record and have never been arrested/detained before. I pleaded not guilty to the ticket, and my hearing is on November 5th. I don't know what to do; my future jobs and scholarships depend on whether I have a criminal record or not. I am very worried about the results of this. Any advice would help me a lot. Thank you.


Asked on 10/25/03, 3:43 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Gregory Cantwell Law Office of Jefferson D. Jelly

Re: Trespassing

Go on the court date and speak with the prosecutor (state's attorney). Explain your story and the fact that you are concerned with your record, etc. If the prosecutor is in a good mood, he/she may dismiss or nolle the charges. If what the prosecutor proposes doesn't sound right to you, ask for a continuance so that you can get an attorney and you'll be given a new date. Dress well, be respectful and sincere. Good luck.

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Answered on 10/27/03, 9:12 am


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