What to do if I am a 23 year old who has been cited for misdemeanor possession of a small amount of marijuana and a small pipe?
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What to do if I am a 23 year old who has been cited for misdemeanor possession of a small amount of marijuana and a small pipe?
I have no prior legal history and a hearing with the local magistrate within the next 2 months. I am seeing a therapist for a number of reasons, and she has given me advice against drug use, and will write me a letter backing me because I am seeing her for treatment. With my previous record of no arrests or convictions, what can I expect?
Asked on March 28, 2013 under Criminal Law, Pennsylvania
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
You may well be given what is called "diversion". This is a legal tool that is available to first-time offenders. Pursuant to diversion, you will plead guilty to the charge, be put on a special probation and upon its successful completion you plea will be withdrawn and your case dismissed; you will then be left with a clean criminal record. However, if your probation is not completed as per its terms then your plea will stand and you will be sentenced accordingly.
At this point, you should consult directly with a criminal law attorney in your area. They can best explain all of this to you and work with the prosecutor's office in possibly getting your case diverted.
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