Legal Question in Criminal Law in Michigan

Furnishing Alcohol to a Minor

I was in Pontiac with two friends of mine who are under 21. I'm 22. We were in a parked car drinking and undercover police came along and caught us. They got tickets for MIP's and open intoxicant. I got a ticket for furnishing alcohol to a minor and open intoxicant. They dumped the bottle out and sent us on our way. No arrests or anything. I'm thinking about just paying the fine (which I think is $100) and moving on. But my boyfriend is arguing with me that I should go to the court and ask the prosecutor or judge to drop the charges and let me just pay the fines. I'd hate to have a misdemeanor on my record, but I did something and I got what I deserved.

Is it worth it for me to go and ask a prosecutor to drop the charges? Are they always willing to do that? How long does a misdemeanor stay on your record?? How much will these two misdemeanors actually affect me in getting a job?


Asked on 6/06/04, 11:24 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Jesse Sweeney Sweeney Law Offices, P.L.L.C.

Re: Furnishing Alcohol to a Minor

These misdemeanors WILL most likely stay on your record. Your best bet is to hire counsel for this matter. The truth is that it may prevent you from receiving probation and you might be looking at jailtime. Also, should you receive ANOTHER related misdemeanor later in life, it will more likely than not put you at increased risk for jail time. Finally, it will affect your chances for employment. Most employers do criminal background checks on all potential hires. I think you should hire someone whether or not you think you 'deserve' punishment.

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Answered on 6/07/04, 8:17 am
William Morrison Action Defense Center

Re: Furnishing Alcohol to a Minor

Yes, its worth it . Two misdemeanors stay on your record for life. You cannot get them expunged. Furnishing alcohol to a minor can carry a $1000 fine and/or jailtime. This definitely could affect your future chances for employment.

Your boyfriend's right. If you can't afford an attorney, get a court appointed lawyer. Do not just show up and plead guilty - You'll be sorry you did.

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Answered on 6/06/04, 11:57 pm


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