Minor in Possession
High school and college years are a time of unlimited potential, where your future can unfold in any number of exciting directions. Unfortunately, they can also be a time of risks, pressures, and honest mistakes. Don’t let an underage drinking or drug charge damage your future before it begins. Arm yourself against these charges with compassionate and skilled legal representation from Bennett Law.
Minor in Possession Attorney in Birmingham
Minor in Possession Defense in Alabama
Minor in possession charges are relatively common for young people in Alabama, especially those attending college or university in one of our state’s many great institutions. However, no matter how common the charge may be, for each individual and their family, a minor in possession charge can be a time of great stress, uncertainty, and fear for the future.
Minor in possession charges can disrupt your present and future educational opportunities. Even the most promising students can have their best efforts derailed by a criminal conviction stemming from underage drinking, drug use, or simply being present in certain lounges and clubs. A knowledgeable and respected criminal defense attorney can help prevent an honest mistake from spiraling out of control.
When to Hire an Attorney for Minor in Possession Charges
If you or your child is facing minor in possession charges, you may not know the best course of action to take. As soon as possible following the arrest, you should contact a skilled criminal defense attorney. The sooner you receive advice from an attorney, the better your chances of obtaining a favorable outcome and protecting your future.
A minor in possession charge is no simple rite of passage or charge to brush off. Without legal representation, you or your child may face jail time, fines, or suspension of driving privileges. In addition, a minor in possession charge could trigger misconduct proceedings within a college or university’s disciplinary system. Working with Bennett Law could help you avoid:
Frequently Asked Questions About Minor in Possession Charges in Alabama
Yes: possessing, purchasing, or consuming alcohol when you’re under the age of 21 is a misdemeanor in Alabama. That means that if you possess, purchase, or consume, any alcohol prior to your 21st birthday, you are at risk of being charged with a first-degree misdemeanor. This can cause not only fines and fees but also a criminal record that could damage your future.
However, just because you were arrested in possession of alcohol does not automatically mean you will be found guilty. Call Bennett Law as soon as possible to begin building a defense for your future!
No. It is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to purchase, consume, possess, or transport any liquor, malt, or brewed beverages within the State of Alabama. That means you must be 21 or older to buy or drink alcohol under any circumstances, even in your own home or with your parents’ permission.
If you are a parent or homeowner who is facing misdemeanor charges for allowing minors to consume alcohol on your property, Bennett Law is equipped to fight for your rights as well. We are here to defend anyone accused of a crime in the Birmingham metro area, Tuscaloosa, or Shelby County.
Fines for a minor in possession charge can range from $25 to $500. You could also face up to three months in jail, as well as a 3 to 6 month suspension of your driver’s license. Reinstating a driver’s license requires paying a $275 fee.
However, paying the fees is not the end of the story. In addition to these financial penalties, a conviction creates a criminal record that will affect your future opportunities. Ansley Platt Bennett has successfully worked with prosecutors in the municipal courts of Birmingham and Tuscaloosa to help avoid convictions or achieve youthful offender status for her clients, which prevents the convictions from appearing on a minor’s criminal record.
Don’t Wait: Contact Bennett Law Today
If you have been arrested, contacted by law enforcement, or are under investigation for being a minor in possession in Alabama, contact Bennett Law for a free consultation. We take the time to listen, help you understand your options, and take decisive action in your case. Call now to make Bennett Law your advocate.