Court Appearance Advice

Elemeno_P

Going unreg for this. I was arrested a couple of weeks back and charged under Section 6/8 of the Intoxicating Liquor Act. In other words, I was stupidly drunk in a public place. I acted the total boll0x, refusing to go home after the Gardai instructed me to do so. To make things worse, when I was brought into the station, I refused a caution (?!) because in my obnoxious state I thought I could challenge it. Don't ask.

Obviously, when I slept it off (they kept me in as I needed to sign the charge sheet) I realised what a muppet I'd been. I was actually chatting to the lads in the station that morning, apologising for causing them the hassle that I did, and they said if they could call in the charge they would, but at that stage it was too late. Entirely my own fault I know.

This was completely out of character for me. Not to make excuses, but I had started a new medication that day which I wasn't meant to drink on. I'm generally a polite, affable kind of person, so thinking about my behaviour that night makes me so embarrassed. I have not drank alcohol since. I've never had any run-ins with the law (and never again!), have my degree, work a decent job full-time etc.

Anyway, I fully accept both charges and intend to plea guilty. I was just wondering if people advise a solicitor considering there's no contest? Is there anything I should do prior to the court date? Should I write a letter to the guards to have an official apology on record? Should I prepare anything to say on the day? Getting kind of nervous about it now. Is this going to come back to haunt me?

Any advice appreciated

Holsten

Get representation no matter what happens.

You generally won't speak at all.

If it goes anywhere at it will be probation act.

Elemeno_P

Thanks Holsten. Does this mean there won't be a conviction?

I don't even know how to go about getting a solicitor; do I just pick anyone?

Pro Hoc Vice

Holsten wrote: »

Get representation no matter what happens.

You generally won't speak at all.

If it goes anywhere at it will be probation act.

I assume the OP means section 6 and 8 of the public order act, depending on facts and the judge the probation act may not be granted. But a solicitor as you say will be able to properly advise.

Pro Hoc Vice

Elemeno_P wrote: »

Thanks Holsten. Does this mean there won't be a conviction?

I don't even know how to go about getting a solicitor; do I just pick anyone?

You can pick any you want, legal aid may be granted but a solicitor can advise best on that. The best solicitor to pick is one that practices in criminal law.

Little CuChulainn

Get a good solicitor and tell him you want him to try get you the caution. It is not too late. I have seen judges strike out charges in favour of an adult caution.

Elemeno_P

Thanks guys. I suppose the best thing to do is contact a solicitor this week and see where to go from here. I'm happy paying a fine/charity thing, it's the least I deserve, but I'd rather not have a record if possible.

Elemeno_P

Pro Hoc Vice wrote: »

I assume the OP means section 6 and 8 of the public order act, depending on facts and the judge the probation act may not be granted. But a solicitor as you say will be able to properly advise.

Yeah sorry to clarify, section 6 and 8, I wouldn't desist following repeated advice and I was also mouthing off as I was completely out of sorts. This is the price I guess.