Alcohol & Drugs: MIP, MIC, Intoxication NYC underage drinking, open container

[sec331]

I got a court summons for underage drinking and open container. I am considering pleading not guilty to underage drinking because they did not do a breathalizer test on me. The cops might have seen me take a sip of the beer but I was thinking of citing peer pressure and pretending to drink (like they show you to do in the education video).

Is the cops word against mine enough for a conviction?

should i get a public defender? How do I do that?

 

[mafioso]

If that is your plan go to court and plead not guilty. If you can't afford an attorney, one would be appointed. You seem to be creative………..your word versus his is 50-50… Can go either way. You would have to explain circumstances leading to you holding the beer and might need a witness who can support your claim. Well your court appointed attorney would weigh what the DA has and give you the best advice…….Just be patient.