Paris Hilton Pleads Not Guilty to Drunk Driving Charges  1/10/07

Paris Hilton pleaded not guilty to drink driving charges today (09JAN07) in Los Angeles.

The Stars are Blind singer was not required to appear in court because the charges are misdemeanors and her attorney made an appearance on her behalf.

Hilton was pulled over by police in September (06) for driving erratically and told officers at the time that she had one drink on an empty stomach and was on her way to get a hamburger at a nearby fast food restaurant.

Hilton has no prior drink driving arrests. If convicted, she could be sentenced to six months in jail and fined $1000.

The minimum penalty for a first-time offender is a fine, probation and rehab.

Her next court date is slated for 23 January (07).