Mip

What is the name of your state? California

My basic question is this: Does the state of California or any other for that matter break down Minor In Possesion laws into varying degrees of severity? A friend was given a ticket for carrying unopened alcohol (beer) in a bag. He was sober and was holding it briefly why the person who legally purchased it was eating (they were walking in a group of friends at a parade event). The minor (age 20) placed the bag on the ground when he saw the officers realizing that he would get in trouble. In turn they saw him do it. I realize this is still ilegal but can he still be charged in the same way as a minor drinking at a party with an open container? Would it be in his best interests to protest this?

As the saying goes "Tell it to the judge." A lot of times it's cheeper to just say "Your Honor, I'd like to plead guilty, and could I please explain?" Sometimes it makes the judge fell good to let you off easy.