If I’m being charged with 3 misdemeanors and this is my first offense, what are my best options in this situation?
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If I’m being charged with 3 misdemeanors and this is my first offense, what are my best options in this situation?
What legal repercussions should I expect? There were 2 for possession of drug paraphernalia and 1 for drug abuse for marijuana.
Asked on September 24, 2015 under Criminal Law, Ohio
Answers:
B.H.F., Member, Texas State Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 9 years ago | Contributor
If you can hire an attorney or obtain a court appointed attorney, then that would be a good start. You are looking at a number of charges which are going to look like you went on your own mini crime wave on your criminal history. An attorney can help you broker a plea that reduces at least some of the negative impacts associated with multiple charges at one time.
Because you are a first time offender, you do have a good chance at getting probation. This is where you agree to complete a certain drug program or complete community service in exchange for not having to spend time in jail. However, some jurisdictions have programs wherein you do some of the same or similar activities and "earn" a dismissal of your charges. If this type of diversion program is available in your area, then it's usually best to try to take advantage of the program. With a dismissal, you have a better chance of obtaining an expunction later to clean up your record.
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