Legal Question in DUI Law in North Carolina
I am a 19-yr-old college student and recv'd a "Underage Possession of Alcoholic Beverage" Federal Ticket (from a U.S. Park Ranger) while camping --not driving-- no vehicle was involved. He told me (as did the CVB) that payment of the fine will not result in any adverse consequences for me (i.e. be of my record, etc.). But by paying it, am I not essentially accepting a "conviction" of a misdemeanor and, therefore, forever having to explain it on job applications, etc? I know a lawyer is likely going to suggest I hire a lawyer to represent me...but I have no record or prior run-ins with the law...so, for this, is it really necessary? What are the ramifications if I pay versus going to Fed Court to try to get it dropped?
1 Answer from Attorneys
If your car was broken and you didn't know how to fix it - you'd go to a mechanic. If you were sick - you'd go to a doctor. So why are you even questioning going to an attorney when you have legal questions that you don't know the answer to?