Q: I got a citation for speeding and possession. he said the possession charge is a petty misdemeanor. what do I do?
I got a citation for speeding and possession. he said the possession charge is a petty misdemeanor. The citation says i do not need to go to court but I really want it off my record. I have never been charged with anything and I am freaking out that I will never get a job now.
A:
Marijuana in a Motor Vehicle (more than 1.4 grams, but 42.5 grams or less of plant-form) is a misdemeanor crime related to driving. It's not unusual for it to be treated as a "payable offense" by the prosecution, so that the driver can mail in a fine without going to court. But the driver would then have a petty misdemeanor marijuana conviction record. And the Minnesota driver's license would be revoked for at least 30 days, and the conviction would be added to their drivers license record as well.
That is why many people in this situation choose to go to court to prevent a conviction and keep it off their records. You can do so without a lawyer but it's better to have help from a lawyer.
You are welcome to call me about it if you like.
A: You should go to court if you want to keep it off your record. Oftentimes, the prosecutor will offer a stay of adjudication or a continuance for dismissal which will mean that you don't have a record as long as you follow conditions. An attorney help you achieve this goal. Many will offer a free consultation to discuss the matter.
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