Legal Question in Criminal Law in New Jersey

Arrested while in Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) Program
I was given Pre-Trial Intervention for an assault of a police officer charge. My probation period would be up on Mar 29th but I was just arrested for an Underage drinking charge while in the backseat of a car with a sober driver. What will happen to me; will I go to court now for the assault charges and then probable jail? Should I try to plead not guilty and try any way of getting out of this? I was never breathalized but I signed saying I was underage and consumed alcohol which I'm sure can not be beat in court. The only thing I can think of now without other suggestions is that I need to find someone with connections. Also, I don't know if this matters but it is NJ PTI but I live and was arrested for the underage in PA, so could I try and not tell my PO? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Asked on 1/15/08, 11:40 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys

Mark Johns Mark Johns, Esquire

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Re: Arrested while in Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) Program

Underage drinking in Pa is a Summary Offense. The statutes in PA say it is not a criminal offense. You should speak with an attorney to discuss whether or not to disclose this citation. I offer free initial consultations.

Answered on 1/16/08, 5:36 am

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John Gibson John W. Gibson, Esquire

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Re: Arrested while in Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) Program

First, quit using alcohol. Some young people can handle it but they don't get arrested for assaulting police officers.

Second, try to get the underage drinking charge handled through a pre-trial diversionary program and contact you Probation Officer. P.O.s will generally wait until the outcome of the underlying charge and since you were not driving I think you are eligible for Pennsylvania's underage drinking program where there is no finding of guilt provided you comply with the conditions imposed.

You should always have an attorney when you are dealing with any criminal charges.

Answered on 1/17/08, 10:43 am

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