It is typically not lawful for underage people to consume alcohol. With occasional exceptions for religious observances, young adults generally have to abstain from consuming alcohol until they reach the legal drinking age of 21.
Many people recognize that the state can prosecute teenagers and even 20-year-olds for consuming alcohol if they get caught while clearly under the influence. Underage drivers could also face charges even if they are well below the legal limit imposed on adults. However, contrary to what people might assume, intoxication or even proof of ingesting alcohol is not necessary for the state to prosecute a juvenile defendant for an alcohol offense.
Storing or transporting alcohol is also a crime
Just as it is illegal for minors to consume alcohol, it is also unlawful for them to possess it, store it or transport it. With limited exemptions for those performing job functions for service-sector businesses or grocery stores, any possession or transportation of alcohol by someone under the legal drinking age could lead to criminal charges.
The penalties for a minor in possession offense could include $50 in fines for a first offense or $150 for any subsequent offense. The state can also suspend the underage defendant’s driver’s license. Young adults who agree to hold alcohol for friends or who transport it from one location to another could be at risk of criminal prosecution if they get caught.
Juvenile defendants and their parents may need help understanding the consequences of criminal accusations and responding appropriately, and that’s okay. Fighting minor in possession charges can help young adults avoid the loss of their driving privileges and an embarrassing record that could limit their opportunities for years.
