What is the name of your state? Tennessee
I was arrested and charged with simple possession of marijuana and paraphernalia. No prior criminal record so this will be my first offense. I was with someone else when they were driving and got pulled over. They questioned him and he gave consent to search the vehicle. Then I was questioned and searched. They found nothing on me but found a small amount of marijuana (maybe a dime?), a grinder and rolling papers in the vehicle. I denied it belonging to me but I learned later that he told them it was mine (the marijuana was found under my seat). We both went to jail anyways.
My question is this, do I need a lawyer for this case or would a public defender do? I don't want this on my record. Should I plead not guilty to the charges? Do I have a case? Is it even worth it?
I go to court next week so any advice would be appreciated.
I was arrested and charged with simple possession of marijuana and paraphernalia. No prior criminal record so this will be my first offense. I was with someone else when they were driving and got pulled over. They questioned him and he gave consent to search the vehicle. Then I was questioned and searched. They found nothing on me but found a small amount of marijuana (maybe a dime?), a grinder and rolling papers in the vehicle. I denied it belonging to me but I learned later that he told them it was mine (the marijuana was found under my seat). We both went to jail anyways.
My question is this, do I need a lawyer for this case or would a public defender do? I don't want this on my record. Should I plead not guilty to the charges? Do I have a case? Is it even worth it?
I go to court next week so any advice would be appreciated.