Should I plead not guilty or guilty to a underage drinking charge in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania? (Updated 2023)
Should I plead not guilty or guilty to a underage drinking charge in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania? (Updated 2023)
Underage Drinking Charge: In response to this question, the clear answer is to enter a plea of “Not Guilty” and request a hearing. The rule I follow is that when you are uncertain of what choice to make, make the choice that leaves you with the most options.
Pleading “Guilty” leaves no options; you have admitted to committing the crime, and you simply receive the standard penalty. Pleading “Not Guilty” provides options such as the opportunity to negotiate at the hearing with the police officer or District Attorney to a lesser penalty, or even a lesser charge which does not require a driver’s license suspension. I have even negotiated a complete withdrawal of these charges for community service and an alcohol education class.
Keep in mind that to get what you want, hire a lawyer early in the process who knows how to achieve your goals.
Feel free to call me to discuss your situation.
Joseph Alexander Paletta is a lawyer who will represent Nurses in the defense against Driving Under the Influence criminal charges AND in defense against the Board of Nursing imposing consequences against the Nursing License as a result of the DUI charges. Therefore, a Nurse need not hire two separate lawyers, one for each service. Look at the website www.palettalaw.com to see how Nurses have already benefitted from retaining Attorney Paletta. Email Attorney Paletta at joseph@palettalaw.com or call 24/7 at 412-391-7999.