Legal Question in Criminal Law in Maryland
Me and my friends were at the park last night and "they" were going to smoke weed, before they started, the cops showed up and asked each one of us if we had anything on us, i said no b/c i ddnt have anything, because even tho it sounds like B.S, i wasnt gonna smoke. After they searched me and ddnt find anything, they still charged me with paraphernalia, so my question is, Should i plead Guilty or Not Guilty?
3 Answers from Attorneys
First of all, you should get a lawyer, because if you plead not guilty there is very little chance you will win. There are certain factors that must be used for constructive possession, and the rules of evidence are complicated. Also, a drug conviction such as this could ruin your future job prospects. I would be more than willing to meet with you to discuss the specific facts. If you cannot afford a lawyer then definitely get the Public Defender, because they are better than nothing.
Get all of the paperwork relating to your arrest and charge and make an appointment to consult with a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. Any charge is serious, and you need to know what you are doing before you do it. An attorney can evaluate your charges and the evidence and give you a professional opinion about your chances of acquittal or conviction. Even if you are found guilty a lawyer can assist you with presenting mitigation and trying to persuade the court to impose a lesser sentence. I offer a free initial consultation.
If you do not have any prior criminal record, you may not have to plead guilty or not guilty. Depending on where you are charged, you may be able to do some community service. Of course, if the State is not ready or not able to prove its case, they should drop the charges.
Often, the State will try to compel you to plea or do community service even if the officer does not have the alleged contraband in court. THEY MUST HAVE IT.
Ultimately, however, I agree with the other attorneys. You should definetly consult with criminal defense attorney so they can advise you properly and keep you record clean.
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