Underage DUI Consumption of Alcohol Laws

Arizona’s minor in consumption and minor in possession laws are intended to deter people under the age of 21 from drinking or possessing alcohol. Either charge can come with harsh consequences because the state is concerned about irresponsible behavior that could result, such as drinking and driving, disorderly conduct or even assault.

If you are the parent of someone charged with minor in consumption or minor in possession, you are likely worried about how a conviction could impact your son or daughter’s future. How will a conviction affect their schooling or extracurricular activities? Is there any way to have the charges reduced or dismissed?

These are important questions that you should speak about with one of the capable and experienced attorneys at The Arizona Criminal Law Team. We focus solely on defending the rights of those charged with a crime.

What Are the Penalties Associated with Minor in Consumption Laws?

First time offenders may receive any or all of the following penalties if convicted:

• One Year Probation
• Alcohol Education Program
• Community Service

For many young people, a probation term, alcohol education programs and community service could interfere with their schooling and extracurricular activities, especially if your loved one is attending college. You’ll want to speak with an attorney who can negotiate on your behalf or defend your relative and fight to have those charges reduced or dismissed.

If there were other circumstances involved that led to additional charges, the penalties could be even more severe.

Possession of False Identification

If a fake ID was used to purchase the alcohol, this could lead to additional criminal charges with more severe consequences.

Underage DUI

DUI laws are not the same for people under the age of 21. That means even the slightest trace of alcohol in a minor’s system could result in a DUI charge. A blood alcohol content above 00.00% is grounds for a DUI charge.

Disorderly Conduct

If authorities suspect that underage drinking led to rowdy and illegal behavior, a disorderly conduct charge may be tacked on to the minor in consumption or minor in possession charge. This could lead to more serious penalties.

Assault

Sometimes underage drinking leads to a conflict in which assault is involved. This is a very serious charge in Arizona, and one that is prosecuted aggressively.

Why You Need a Lawyer

Your loved one may be granted leniency, especially if it is a first-time offense. An experienced attorney will be able to look at all the details of your case and present a compelling argument in favor of leniency.

The attorneys with The Arizona Criminal Law will also weigh all the evidence to looks for inconsistencies on the state’s case or potential lapses in procedure on the part of the arresting officers. We have helped clients just like you have charges dismissed or reduced.

Schedule Your Free Consultation Today

Get in touch as soon as possible to schedule your free consultation. The sooner you begin working with us, the sooner we can start preparing your case for a successful outcome.

Call Now for a free consultation 480-I-Have-Help (480-442-8343)