Do I need a lawyer to go to court if I recieved a summons for public urination?
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Do I need a lawyer to go to court if I recieved a summons for public urination?
I was given a ticket last Friday for urinating in public; I have to appear in court and I’d like to know if I can go alone?
Asked on May 9, 2012 under Criminal Law, New York
Answers:
Richard Southard / Law Office of Richard Southard
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
If you are charged under the NY Health Code section 153.09 then the chareg is an unclassified midemeanor and if you plead guilty or are found guilty after trial, you would have a permanent criminal record that could not be expunged or erased. Hire a lawyer to make sure you don't become a convicted criminal. If you are charged with the Administrative Code section, then it is only a violation. I would still recommend hiring a lawyer but the risks are much less.
Kevin Bessant / Law Office of Kevin Bessant & Associates
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
For ths type of offense, a Judge or Magistrate will allow you to appear without the representation of lawyer. Most urination in pubic citations involve admitting responsibility and you may be fined. If there is a criminal misdemeanor conviction that could result, then I would advise you to consult a criminal attorney to avoid the risk of having a criminal conviction on your record.
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