Legal Question in Criminal Law in New York

Public Urination is not a major offense but many people do hire attorneys for a single court appearance and usually for the exact reasons you have suggested: They are concerned about being stuck with a criminal record. Most attorneys will charge between $400-$750 for the appearance and with good representation, the charge is often dismissed. However, as an attorney who has handled a large number of these cases at 346 Broadway, I have never seen a penalty greater than $50. Other reasons to hire an attorney would be if you cannot appear in Court on the return date, are living out of state and received the summons while visiting New York City, or would like to be in and out of the Courthouse within an hour, as opposed to spending eight hours without your cell phone or any extraneous means of entertainment while being yelled at by Court officers and employees.

If you think you might want or need representation, please feel free to call or send my office a message. Good luck!

I mostly agree with the previous answer. If the original charge is a misdemeanor, Igenerally can have it reduced to a violation with a fine of 450.00. This means you will not have a criminal record. There are also possibilities of medical defenses which,if applicable, will result in dismissal of the charges. you may contact my office @7188340087 for a free phone consultation.