Steve David Sitkoff's Answers

I was cited for driving with a suspended license. Is it worth hiring a lawyer?

Once you pay off the outstanding fine which resulted in the suspension, the court will electronically notify DMV to lift the hold from your license. Usually takes a couple days. You will then be able to obtain proof of reinstatement of your driving privilege. This is important, simply because the judge at arraignment will likely ask you if you now have your license. If you do, it is more likely that the misdemeanor will be reduced to an infraction (VC12500). No criminal record and no...

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How can I get the domestic violence charges dropped?

Unfortunately, you can not control as to whether the DA pursues the case or not, however, you certainly have influence. Since your boyfriend was arrested and released on bail recently, contacting the DA at this point will get you nowhere, since the report is more than likely not filed as of yet. Furthermore, him taking the phone away from you as you attempted to call the police would likely result in an additional count filed against him, assuming you stated that to the police. Keep in mind,...

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Will my juvenile record show up in a background check?

The question of whether it will show or not depends on whether you were actually "convicted" or if the case was dismissed through diversion. If this offense was your first and only brush with the criminal justice system, you may have received diversion or deferred entry of judgment (DEJ). In that circumstance, the record would be sealed provided that you complied with your penalties. Therefore, it should not appear on a background, including DOJ. You can verify this by requesting a copy of...

Can I get My Driving on Suspended License case Dimissed or Charged as an Infraction

A warrant was issued due to a failure to appear, keeping the case active. The DA's decision to charge you was made in 2008, not 2010. You do however, have a reasonable excuse as to why you did not appear and the fact that you now have a valid license will give an attorney representing you a reasonable argument for a reduction to an infraction. You may want to check with the DMV to confirm that your license is still valid, since a warrant could result in a DMV hold. In that case, once the...

Do i need a criminal Defense Lawyer?

If you simply plead guilty, the drug conviction will be on your record. That will certainly have a negative impact on your ability to go to college or get a good job in the future. I would see if there is some kind of "drug diversion" program in the area. If successfully completed, this would likely leave your record clean.