In the state of California, it’s not a crime to be drunk in public. However, there is a section of the law which makes it a crime to be in a state of intoxication where you are not able to care for yourself or you are a danger to your own health or the health of others. There may be times when people do not fit this description but are arrested regardless. The crime of public intoxication does not require you to have any specific blood alcohol concentration so this arrest can be performed without other standard tests.
Finding a Lawyer
Having a public intoxication lawyer in Los Angeles can be a great option if this has happened to you. A violation of this law in California is punishable by up to six months in jail, probation, and a thousand dollar fine. The charge itself is only considered a misdemeanor but jail time is a real possibility. Also, for those that may be immigrants, conviction under this law could place your immigration status in jeopardy.
The misdemeanor conviction may not have many long-term effects but having it expunged from your record is a possibility. Overall, the penalties for this conviction can have the potential to be serious which is why it’s best to have a good legal defender on your team. The primary benefit that a lawyer can provide for you is to prove that you did not meet the requirements of the arrest conditions. This means that you were able to exercise care for your own or others safety and you did not obstruct any public way.
A guilty verdict can be a challenge for prosecutors since they have the burden of proof. A good lawyer can argue that the officer did not follow due diligence by conducting a breath alcohol test or a field sobriety test. Without these documented tests, you have a good chance of not being convicted and found guilty. The pressure is on the prosecution to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you are guilty.
While this may seem fairly simple a professional lawyer has the expertise and knowledge to be able to argue your case for you and win. The cost is well worth getting the case dismissed and you should contact a lawyer as quickly as possible. With this professional on your side, you’ll be able to get back to your normal life as quickly as possible.