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Originally Posted by Rudius
California state law sentences a fine and/or classes and a mandatory 1 year license suspension.
Do you guys believe I should plea guilty or not guilty?
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In my opinion (NOTE: I'm not a lawyer, so take it for what it's worth), do NOT let it get to the plea stage, if you can help it. If you plead Guilty or Nolo Contendre (No Contest), you will likely get the mandatory 1 year sentence. That's why it's "Mandatory".
If you have a decent lawyer - PD or otherwise - they should be able to get this reduced for you. Both times I've been in court (for friends), these negotiations happened in the hallway outside the courtroom, before the docket slot came up. In your case, a suspended sentence is probably in order, provided you complete the community service offered you, and stay clean for the time outlined.
You might even get lucky, and the cop might not show up! Instant dismissal.... This would probably be MORE likely if it were a simple traffic violation, but it *IS* just a misdemeanor charge.
Good luck! Heed the good advice offered by those who replied before me, and you'll be fine.