Underage Possession of Alcohol
Underage Drinking Facts
In Virginia, anyone under age 21 accused of purchasing, possessing, attempting to purchase or attempting to possess an alcoholic beverage faces a driver’s license suspension of up to six months, a fine, probation and up to 50 hours of community service. A charge of “minor in possession” can also be filed simply because alcohol was detected in a young person’s system.
Thus, all those under age 21 who consume or purchase alcohol are considered to be minors in possession of alcohol and can be charged with possession of alcohol as a minor. As inconvenient as those penalties may be, the facts of life dictate that the real consequences of a conviction may not be apparent until a young adult applies to college, interviews for a new job or other life events come up. A key point to consider is that by paying a fine and accepting a sentence, some people plead guilty and establish a criminal record without realizing that an alternative exists.
Potential Resolutions for Underage Drinking
Fortunately, you may be eligible for first-offender treatment, which leads to a dismissal of the charge once you complete community service and other requirements. Additionally, it may be possible to avoid a suspended license. Further, depending on the facts, if your Constitutional Rights were violated, or if there isn’t enough admissible evidence based on the facts, our lawyers can leverage that information with prosecutors or fight the charge in court. Again, with the goal of dismissal.
Dealing with a criminal charge is difficult for anyone but for college students and other young adults, a criminal conviction could have a negative impact on their education, financial aid and career opportunities.
If you or your child has been arrested for underage drinking or has a court date scheduled for underage drinking charges, it is important to understand what potential defenses exist. Petrovich & Walsh PLC’s attorney’s provide quality and experienced representation in all underage drinking and underage possession of alcohol matters in Virginia to include: Fairfax County, Fairfax City, Prince William County, Arlington County, Alexandria City, Loudoun County in Virginia.