Thanks to anyone kind enough to respond.
My 18-year-old son got an MIP at college in Washington state. He was walking with a beer, not driving or obviously intoxicated. The officer who cited him did not give him a copy of any citation or ticket, so I don't have anything to look at today to figure out what happens next.
He spoke to the campus police today, who told him he'd receive a citation in the mail and that it would let him know what would happen next. What I've been able to glean online is that it's a gross misdemeanor, maximum punishment $5000 and/or 2 years (but most likely under $500 and two months). On the Department of Licensing web page, there's also some confusing information about revocation of his driver's license.
My gut tells me that he should pay the fine and move on, but the other potential penalties (loss of drivers' license, effect on insurance rates, permanent record, etc.) might be worth getting a lawyer. I don't want to make a mistake based on my own naivety. Anyone have any advice on what's REALLY likely to happen and whether a lawyer is a good idea?
Thanks, and all the best...
My 18-year-old son got an MIP at college in Washington state. He was walking with a beer, not driving or obviously intoxicated. The officer who cited him did not give him a copy of any citation or ticket, so I don't have anything to look at today to figure out what happens next.
He spoke to the campus police today, who told him he'd receive a citation in the mail and that it would let him know what would happen next. What I've been able to glean online is that it's a gross misdemeanor, maximum punishment $5000 and/or 2 years (but most likely under $500 and two months). On the Department of Licensing web page, there's also some confusing information about revocation of his driver's license.
My gut tells me that he should pay the fine and move on, but the other potential penalties (loss of drivers' license, effect on insurance rates, permanent record, etc.) might be worth getting a lawyer. I don't want to make a mistake based on my own naivety. Anyone have any advice on what's REALLY likely to happen and whether a lawyer is a good idea?
Thanks, and all the best...
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