I would take any criminal charge seriously and speak with a competent criminal defense attorney about the choices and the ramifications. My anticipation is you will find the more important consideration is what goes on the family member's record. Often, in a plea agreement, the risk of a conviction and the matter being on the record is removed with some form of conditional discharge/probation. While there may be an impact on the fines and costs, the time paid to the attorney would then be limited.
