Q: Received a citation in the mail, date of offense is incorrect and no option for court.

A: Depending on the county where this offense occurred, you need to see a hearing officer before a court date will be set. You should contact the telephone number on the citation if you wish to get a court date set. I doubt that a clerical error on the ticket means that the charge will be dismissed. Typically squad cars are equipped with dash cams which should depict what occurred on the date of offense that may back up the officer's factual claims - date error aside. BUt you could try getting a court date and if nothing else you should be able to get the late fee waived.

A: Call the Court Administrator. The number should be on the ticket. If not, find it online. When you call, talk to a real person about setting up a court date. In some counties, they may make you see a "hearing officer" first. If so, make an appointment to see a "hearing officer." Once you have either of those scheduled, the court will consider you to be responding appropriately and the matter will be pending court. Since you are charged with crimes, you should be able to get a Public Defender if you qualify based on income. Whether you use a private defense attorney or a public defender, consider a goal of keep any conviction for anything marijuana-related off your record. Keep in mind that a conviction for Over 1.4 grams Marijuana in a Motor Vehicle or for Open Container of Alcohol, will go on your drivers license record and trigger a drivers license revocation of at least 30 days. The Marijuana in a Motor Vehicle charge should be dismissed based on the facts you've stated here.