My son recently visited a national park and he and his friends had planned on camping to see the sunset in the morning. The camping ground w...

Question

My son recently visited a national park and he and his friends had planned on camping to see the sunset in the morning. The camping ground was full so they pulled up with their car close to the camping ground near the track. They put out their sleeping bags around an old fire pit. The park ranger came and gave them a ticket for camping outside the designated area which we understand, but also for making the fire pit. It was an old pit that someone else had dug and they never used it. The ranger told them that this is considered a misdemeanor and the ticket is for $185. Should we fight that ticket since they never started a fire and what does the misdemeanor do for a record if we just pay the fine?

Answer

A misdemeanor will remain on your son's record forever. It would be better to consult with an attorney, and have the matter either dismissed or reduced to an infraction.