Pittsburgh Public Drunkenness Lawyers
A person is guilty of the summary offense of public drunkenness if the person appears in any public place manifestly under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance (without a prescription), to the degree that the person endangers themselves, other persons, other property, or annoy persons in the vicinity.
A first-time conviction of public drunkenness may result in paying a fine up to $500.00, and though not likely, serving up to 90 days in jail. A second-time conviction of public drunkenness may result in paying a fine up to $1,000.00, and serving up to 90 days in jail.
If you’re charged with a public drunkenness, we recommend contesting the charges by pleading ‘not guilty’ and hiring Spivak Law Firm to represent you in court.
We have helped many people charged with summary offenses, then successfully expunged, or erased, the charges from their criminal records. Call us today at (412) 344-4900 or toll free at (800) 545-9390.
Fighting a Charge of Public Drunkenness
Though public drunkenness is a low-level summary offense, it is an embarrassing charge to have on your criminal record. Even a summary offense may limit your employment opportunities.
If you’re charged with public drunkenness, fight it. Here’s why:
- First, if the police officer doesn’t show up to the hearing, the judge will dismiss it.
- Second, if you did not commit the crime, you should never plead guilty just for the sake of expediency.
- Third, even if you committed the crime alleged, your attorney may be able to strike a deal. For instance, the charges may be dismissed on condition that you complete community service.
- Fourth, even if you’re found guilty at the summary trial, you have the right to appeal within 30 days and get a new trial before a different judge.
- Fifth, a conviction will remain on your criminal record for five years before you can even begin the process of expungement.
To speak with an experienced summary trial attorney, call Spivak Law Firm at (412) 344-4900 or toll free at (800) 545-9390.
Contact Our Pittsburgh Law Firm Today
Call Spivak Law Firm at (412) 344-4900 or toll free at (800) 545-9390. Our Pittsburgh office is open during normal business hours, as well as evenings and weekends by appointment.
Spivak Law Firm represents clients in Pittsburgh and all surrounding counties, including: Allegheny County, Beaver County, Butler County, Washington County and Westmoreland County. We accept cases in Armstrong County, Clarion County, Crawford County, Fayette County, Greene County, Indiana County, Lawrence County, Mercer County, Somerset County and Venango County.