Lexington Minor in Possession Lawyer

One of the most common alcohol-related offenses for minors is being charged with possession of alcohol when under the age of 21. A situation in which a minor is caught by law enforcement in possession or consuming alcohol happens more frequently than one would think. However, despite the frequency with which it happens, the consequences may be detrimental in the long-term to an individual’s life.

One bad mistake as a minor may have repercussions for the rest of an individual’s life, causing issues with job and housing opportunities. That is why if you or if your child has been caught with alcohol possession or consumption, the first crucial step to take is to contact a Lexington minor in possession lawyer. Speak to a tenacious defense attorney to learn about your options following an alcohol-related offense.

Knowing the Laws and the Penalties

Under South Carolina law, a minor, being someone under the age of 21, is not permitted to possess or consume alcohol or provide a fake ID in an attempt to obtain alcohol.

If an individual is charged with illegal purchase, possession, or consumption of alcohol, they may receive a fine of up $200 as well as up to 30 days in jail. They may also be required to complete an 8-hour long alcohol education program, also known as AEP, which costs additional money unrelated to the fine.

If a minor misrepresents their age, that is lying about one’s age to purchase or obtain alcohol, they may also face a fine up to $200 and up to 30 days in jail.

Finally, if an adult, being someone over the age of 21, provides alcohol to a minor, they may face a fine of up to $200 for a first-time offense (up to $500 for subsequent offenses), and jail time up to 30 days.

Exceptions to the Law

Like many other states, there are various exceptions to the law in which a minor may legally be able to possess or consume alcohol.

• Serving alcohol as part of their job- A minor who is 18 years or older may legally serve alcoholic beverages in establishments that have a license to sell alcohol. They may only serve the beverages but are not allowed to make drinks or work as bartenders.
• Alcohol for educational purposes- Minors who are participating in culinary courses may taste alcohol under the supervision of the instructor. The instructor must be in control of the alcohol at all times, and the program must call for alcohol tasting to be part of the curriculum.
• Religious ceremonies- A minor may consume alcohol during a religious ceremony.
• Furnishing to minor spouses- If there is a married couple of one adult and one minor, the adult may provide the minor with alcohol in the privacy of their own home.
• Compliance verifications- Minors may ask for alcohol if law enforcement has recruited them as part of a compliance check. This is when police officers check to ensure that establishments are abiding by the law. This stipulation is only for possession and not actual consumption of alcohol.

It is best to speak to a knowledgeable attorney to learn about other laws that pertain to offenses involving minors.

Talk to a Lexington Minor in Possession Attorney Today

If a minor is either in possession or has consumed alcohol outside of the exceptions under the law, they may be charged with minor in possession. As previously mentioned, this may have detrimental and long-lasting effects on an individual’s life.

That is why, if you or your child has been charged with possession as a minor, you should contact a Lexington minor in possession lawyer right away to begin the legal defense process.