Can I Pre-Pay a Fine for a Public Intoxication Charge in Virginia?
November 28, 2014 by Jean Humbrecht
Can I Pre-Pay a Fine for a Public Intoxication Charge in Virginia?
Most of the time, when someone is charged with a crime in Virginia, he must appear in court. Failure to appear in court could result in additional criminal charges and the offender can be arrested and held without bond until the next court date. However, fines for some criminal offenses in Virginia can be pre-paid, meaning an offender can pay the fine without having to go to court. If you are wondering, can I pre-pay a fine for a Public Intoxication charge in Virginia, read the post below.
Public Intoxication Charge in Virginia
A Public Intoxication charge in Virginia (Va. Code §18.2-388) criminalizes being intoxicated in public. Intoxication can be caused by alcohol or drugs-even a valid prescription.
For more information on what it means to be “intoxicated” in Virginia, click here.
For more information on what is considered “public” for purposes of a Public Intoxication charge in Virginia, click here.
Can I Pre-Pay a Fine for a Public Intoxication Charge in Virginia?
A Public Intoxication charge in Virginia (Va. Code §18.2-388) is a misdemeanor but is not punished with any jail time. It is punished with a fine up to $250. The offender can pre-pay the fine for a Public Intoxication charge in Virginia and does not need to appear in Court.
However, pre-paying the fine is an admission of guilt and will result in a criminal conviction on the offender’s permanent criminal record and can never be expunged. Additionally, a conviction for a Public Intoxication charge in Virginia will bar the offender from obtaining a concealed carry permit for 3 years.
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