Legal Question in Criminal Law in New York

Two Pink Summons! Help!

I received two pink summons. One for being in central park past 1am and another for unlawful possession of marijuana. I was walking from the east side of the park to the west side of the park from my friends house. I spotted a police car in the distance but I had no knowledge that no one is allowed in Central Park past 1am so I continued to walk towards the exit of the park. The police car pulled up next to me and two cops stepped out of their car. Their first question was what do you have on you? I will search you. Tell me now what you have. I heard from somewhere that lying to a police officer would result in serious consequences so I told the officer i had marijuana.

I later learned that the police cannot search a person unless they have probable cause to do so. Can somehow use the fourth amendment to somehow combat these charges? Or did i surrender my rights when I admitted to my crime?

This is my first offense and I am sixteen years old.

I know I must appear in court but i would like to have a better understanding of the court process and possible options and consequences before appearing in court.

Am I required to appear with a parent because I am 16 years old?

What advantages do I gain from hiring a lawyer?

What problems might I face if I were to appear alone without a lawyer?


Asked on 3/03/11, 7:19 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys
Joseph Villanueva Villanueva & Sanchala, PLLC - Serving all of NYS

There are many advantages in hiring the right lawyer. Fundamentally, a lawyer can guide you through this difficult process and help secure a favorable disposition that you could not get on your own.

As a former prosecutor, I have defended many people who inititially represented themselves. I can tell you from experience that some of those cases have been the most challenging in my more than 10 years of practice. The reason being is simple: some of the mistakes they made at the beginning of their case were nearly impossible to over come. But,this could have been avoided if they had adequate counsel at the inception of their case. My website may have some useful information for you. Go to www.villanuevalaw.com

Read more
Answered on 3/03/11, 8:11 pm
peter bark bark & karpf

Answer the summons' alone and if you are offered an ACD, a delayed dismissal, take it. If you are asked to plead guilty to anything, ask for time to consult a lawyer.

Read more
Answered on 3/04/11, 6:31 am
Robert Evans Robert S. Evans esq.

I would suggest you tell your family. Then if you or your family could afford it,retain a criminal defense attorney.Your future depends upon the proper resolution of this case. I handle these matters on a daily basis ,with wonderful results. I can also arrange a reasonable fee. Please contact my office @ 718-834-0087 for a free phone consultation.

Read more
Answered on 3/04/11, 8:02 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Criminal Law questions and answers in New York