Post: Don't know what to do anymore

Posted by L on 6/18/09

Okay, so I am almost 20 years old. I received a misdemeanor
for underage consumption about 1.5-2 years ago. I had no
idea that these charges could potentially be brought down
to petty misdemeanors, so I paid the fine and accepted to
consequences. Just last month I received another
misdemeanor for underage consumption because I reached the
stage of alcohol poisoning and had to be taken to the
hospital. I don't know much about legal matters, and I
honestly don't understand how bargains can be made when
there is clear proof that I was, in fact, under the
influence. I guess, my question is, what should I do?
Should I attend the court date and hope the prosecutor
reduces the misdemeanor to a petty misdemeanor? Or since I
already have the first one, is that extremely unlikely? In
contrast to whatever image you've probably created of me in
your mind--party girl, irresponsible--I am actually not
even close to that stereotype. I go to a rigorous college
where I study a lot and do well. I have a 3.4 GPA and am
(was) planning on applying to medical school next year.
Both of these instances were, believe it or not, isolated
events. I admit I made poor decisions (on isolated
occasions) and I regret them more that you could possibly
know. I guess I just would appreciate any legal advice, or
opinions anyone might have. This second conviction has the
potential to just about ruin my entire life. I'd be willing
to do pretty much anything--community service,
alcohol-abuse classes, what have you--to make this
conviction go away. Thank you for your time.

Posts on this thread, including this one

Don't know what to do anymore, 6/18/09, by L.