Plead guilty or not guilty to underage?

Question

I was tailgating for a football game at college and I got an underage citation. BUT they only saw me throwing out an empty beer and when the undercover cops came up to me I was holding an unopened beer. Should I plead guilty or not guilty? (and what are the potential fees for each?)

Answer 1

It doesn't matter whether the beer was unopened, opened, half or whatever. The charge is for the possession.

I would see what plea the prosecutor is willing to give you.

As for potential fees, it will depend upon jurisdiction. Here, a first offense, plead down might be $50 or 10 hours community service. A guilty verdict at trial $500 fine and 100 hours...or a big fat zero if you are found not guilty (difficult for you without perjuring yourself).

Answer 2

By your own statement you are under age and in the possession of alcohol (unopened beer).  You need to plead guilty with an explanation and hope the judge goes lightly.  Fines are at the discretion of the judge, but normally have a maximum amount set by local ordinance.  In my jurisdiction the max is $1,000 per offense.

Answer 3

trust me plead guilty the most you will get if you plead guilty is probation  

Answer 4

did they give you a breath alyzer and or blood test...if not than plead not guilty

Answer 5

Underage includes possessing and consuming, so by the officer seeing you holding a beer,  you have met the requirements. No breath test necessary.

As far as your plea, that is up to you. I'm not sure this site is the best place for legal advice. Most attorneys do not charge for the first visit. The attorney will be familiar with the court, and can give you an idea of what the potential penalty is.