Bradford, PA asked in Criminal Law and Gov & Administrative Law for Pennsylvania

Q: How is a local ordinance violation different from non traffic summary in PA?

I was charged with public intoxication but plead noy guilty due to the circumstances and that my professional license would be affected. The magistrate offered a plea to a local ordinance violation that he said would stay local and not be accessible without search warrant. I received a citation for lo violation for open container which I did not have. Is it true that this will not be reported to bureau of professional affairs? Pa.

1 Lawyer Answer
Timothy Kraeer
Timothy Kraeer
Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Pottsville, PA
  • Licensed in Pennsylvania

A: The difference is that public drunkenness is a violation of the Pennsylvania crimes code, whereas a local ordinance is not. It is only a violation of the local ordinance, or administrative code. It is not a criminal offense, but there will still be a public record generated in connection with the conviction. I doubt it will cause any licensing issues for you. I hope that helps!

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