Legal Question in Criminal Law in Virginia

Last night I got charged with Drunk in Public. I was arrested and taken to a holding cell or something of that sort, for eight hours. I don't quite remember if I was cooperative with the officer. This is my First criminal offense. I feel absolutely awful about it, but i'd like to make things better. My court date is in about a month. And here are my questions.

1- Can my drunk in public be reduced to something else?

2- What can I do to help my case and get a reduced ticket? AA?

3- Although this is my first criminal offense, I am 22... I'm not sure if this'll look good or bad....

4- Any suggestions as to what I can say to the judge?

Thank you so much for your help!


Asked on 8/12/10, 12:59 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Erin Ranney Erin L. T. Ranney, PLLC

Drunk In Public is about as low as it gets for offense types. However, there may be other disposition alternatives (other than the guilty finding and fine) depending on the judge and your circumstances. In other words, can you show the judge that you are a good person otherwise? An attorney could always help you with this.

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Answered on 8/17/10, 1:03 pm


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