If you are underage, committing a crime can have a serious impact on your future, and if you were drinking at the time, the effect can be even harsher. If this is the challenging situation you find yourself in, bringing a strong defense is paramount, and an experienced Georgia criminal defense attorney will spare no effort on your behalf.
The Basic Charge of Minor in Possession of Alcohol
The charge that addresses underage drinking in Georgia is called minor in possession of alcohol (MIP), and a first conviction can carry all the following:
- Up to $300 in fines
- Up to 6 months of jail time
- Driver's license suspension
- Community service requirements
- Alcohol education requirements
A second conviction can be charged as a high and aggravated misdemeanor, and the fines and penalties increase accordingly.
Underage DUI
If the charge in question is driving under the influence (DUI), you're facing even more serious penalties if you are underage. It's also important to know that the State of Georgia takes a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to underage DUI, which means that even a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .02 percent suffices. A conviction results in a mandatory 6- to 12-month driver's license suspension, with no opportunity for a limited permit.
Theft
Another charge often levied alongside MIP is theft; when the two are combined, the consequences can be severe. The threshold that divides misdemeanor theft charges from felony theft charges in Georgia is when the value of the stolen property reaches $1,500. The value of the stolen goods and the specific circumstances involved guide these charges and the related fines and penalties.
Assault and Battery
Alcohol often plays a role in assault charges, and this extends to underage drinking. The charge of assault applies to attempting to physically harm someone or credibly threatening to do so. Assault, in other words, addresses the threat of battery.
Battery, on the other hand, is the crime of intentionally causing someone else to suffer bodily harm. However, causing very minor injuries can still carry a simple battery charge.
Considering the Social Consequences
If you are charged with a crime that includes underage drinking, you are looking at serious social consequences in addition to your legal concerns. These include having a harder time securing employment, pursuing higher education, and renting a place to live. This is in addition to seriously tarnishing your reputation. The best path forward is with skilled legal guidance.
An Experienced Georgia Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Help
The Georgia criminal defense attorneys at Banks, Stubbs & McFarland focus our practice on skillfully protecting our valued clients' rights in the face of serious legal consequences. The outcome of your case is important to your future. Contact us online or call 770-887-1209 for more information today.