The Conservative Cave
Current Events => The DUmpster => Topic started by: franksolich on August 22, 2008, 12:09:41 PM
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http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=389x3837887
This just popped up.
I'm going to watch it, to see what's left out, and what the problem really is.
Sequoia (1000+ posts) Fri Aug-22-08 01:09 PM
Original message
Legal Question: Califorina
If someone gets a citation for a misdemenor is it advisable to have a lawyer for the first court appearance? And why would someone have to complete the "booking process" by going to the jail to get fingerprinted as if this person commited a serious crime?
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I don't care what state you are in, always get a lawyer.
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I don't care what state you are in, always get a lawyer.
And whatever you do, DO NOT ask DUmmies for legal advice. Following said advice will virtually guarantee you a looooong stint as Bubba's bunkmate in the Grey-bar Hotel and Singles Lounge.
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bemildred Donating Member (1000+ posts) Fri Aug-22-08 01:16 PM
Response to Original message
1. Depends on what you did, I think.
In some cases it might be good, in some cases not. If it's a DUI, definitely talk to a lawyer.
I think it's a DUI, or drug-related.
philosophie_en_rose Donating Member (1000+ posts) Fri Aug-22-08 01:27 PM
Response to Original message
2. Call the public defender's office and ask.
Call the public defender's office and ask them what to expect and whether you'll need an attorney at the first appearance. Some misdemeanors are very serious. Either way, consult an attorney to decide what to do.
sfexpat2000 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Fri Aug-22-08 01:28 PM
Response to Original message
3. Booking is just SOP. And it might be a good idea to contact the Public Defender's Office asap because they might be able to help and because they have a big case load so there might be a wait.
slackmaster Donating Member (1000+ posts) Fri Aug-22-08 01:31 PM
Response to Original message
4. Having a lawyer to represent you at every stage of the process is advisable
And why would someone have to complete the "booking process" by going to the jail to get fingerprinted as if this person commited a serious crime?
The purpose is to intimidate you and make you fear the authority of the system. They are hoping to pressure the defendant into confessing, or disclosing information that need not be disclosed.
I was booked and fingerprinted on a Failure To Appear charge, which turned out to be the result of identity theft. I was completely innocent.
The system is fraught with pitfalls to trap amateurs. A good criminal defense attorney is worth it, even if you are sure you are innocent.
sharesunited (816 posts) Fri Aug-22-08 01:32 PM
Response to Original message
5. Misdemeanors are punishable by up to a year in county jail.
You decide what's at stake here.