When they did the breathalizer she blew a 0.01--and was very cooperative--yet got the citation. She doesn't know if she has to hire a lawyer or should she just pay the fine and court costs. The officer told her it was a very minor citation but she doesn't want it on her criminal record.

She's lucky a citation is all she got. The drinking age is 21. Was it written up as a DWI... or a DUI or something else? On either of those two there is no option other than court. And with those you would not show up for without a lawyer.

Keeping in mind if it WAS something else... while she could fight it. She would risk the judge escalating the charge overriding what might have been a very lienient citation by the officer. Meaning... she could walk out of court with something far worse or more than the original fine amount. It's a gamble one takes. From someone who has fought nearly every ticket I've gotten the last 34 years.

Also... not Ga specific, but many states will revoke their drivers license until at least 21 for any alcohol related charge by an underage drinker.