What is going to happen if I was charged with public intoxication?
Question Details:
I was nit driving. I was charged and arrested for public intoxication just because I smelled of alcohol. There was no breathalyzer administered and my blood was not taken. While in custody I did not speak so there was nothing said that would incriminate myself. What is going to happen when I go to court, and what should I do?
In Michigan, public intoxication or "disorderly persons" is a misdemeanor offense punishable by up to 90 days imprisonment. Often times, these cases are fact specific and have a high chance of being reduced or even dismissed if this is your first citation for public intoxication and your have no prior criminal record. At your first court appearance, you will be arraigned on the charges and more than likely given a pre-trial date where you will be given an opportunity to either plead guilty or request a trial. My advice is to speak with a criminal defense attorney in your area to discuss possible tactical options in having the charge reduced or dismissed prior to your first court date.
