QUESTION
Does a 19 yr old college student needs representation if facing m.d.o.p. charges?
Asked on Oct 20th, 2012 on Criminal Law - Michigan
More details to this question:
19 yr old college student caught putting initials into semi-wet concrete on campus. Campus cop cuffed him and put him in car. He had a hearing at the office of student disciplinary ... ended with an "administrative warning" due to his cooperation. Not intoxicated, cooperative. Cop recommended the lesser amt for repair of $137, which will be included in tuition bill. Now a warrant issued for misdemeanor m.d.o.p. and he appeared for booking/arraignment. Requested a PR bond. Denied. We paid $500 bond. Court date Nov. 7, 2012. Representation quoted at $1500 - we can't afford. Does he need rep if he will not plead "not guilty"? He's already admitted responsibility. What can representation help him with?
8 ANSWERS
Michael J. Breczinski
Yes you want representation. No you do not want to plead guilty. You would lose all bargaining power if you do do. A lawyer could probably get this thrown out or no record if you do what ever the court wants. If you plead guilty then you have a criminal conviction on your record. It stays there forever. If you can't afford a lawyer they have to appoint one for you.
Answered on Oct 24th, 2012 at 4:28 PM
Criminal Defense Attorney serving Deltona, FL
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R. Jason de Groot, P.A.
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What is it that you think mdop is? When you are charged with crime, it is always best to have a private attorney.
Answered on Oct 24th, 2012 at 4:27 PM
Criminal Defense Attorney serving McKinleyville, CA
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Law Office M. C. Bruce
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He is entitled to a public defender if he is charged with a misdemeanor. If they reduce to infraction, no court appointed counsel.
Answered on Oct 24th, 2012 at 4:26 PM
Representation can help him evaluate all his options, with the goal of getting the charges dismissed.
Vandalism is a criminal offense, and it also results in him losing his license for 1 year.
If he is pleading not guilty, then he totally needs representation (only guilty pleaders do not need representation).
Answered on Oct 23rd, 2012 at 3:41 PM
Appellate Attorney serving Grosse Pointe Farms, MI
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Musilli Brennan Associates, PLLC
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Representation assists knowing the various programs which potentially can keep this incident off of his permanent record which is very significant for his future. I would make the investment in getting counsel.
Answered on Oct 23rd, 2012 at 3:40 PM
Criminal Law Attorney serving Bloomfield Hills, MI
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Ryan Berman Esq.
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Where is this at? I understand what it's like being a student, and in these tough economic times. I try not to let money prevent someone from having proper representation. Please contact me, as he should have an attorney.
Answered on Oct 23rd, 2012 at 3:39 PM
He will get a court appointed attorney. Not the public defender; usually an appointed private lawyer. Work with the appointed lawyer.
Answered on Oct 23rd, 2012 at 3:33 PM
Leonard A. Kaanta
Yes, he needs a lawyer.
Answered on Oct 23rd, 2012 at 3:32 PM