Underage Drinking Statistics in Atlanta, GA

Underage drinking is a problem throughout the State of Georgia and across the nation, and the related statistics in Atlanta speak volumes. If you or your child is facing an underage drinking charge, it's important to know that the stakes are high in terms of legal penalties and fines as well as social consequences. Having professional legal counsel on your side from the outset is always advised, and an experienced defense attorney at Banks, Stubbs & McFarland is standing by to help.

The Statistics

The State of Georgia reports on underage drinking throughout the state, including Atlanta, and the outlook is somewhat grim. To begin, alcohol remains the drug of choice for adolescents throughout the United States. Consider the following two sobering statistics for Georgia:

  • Of those between the ages of 12 and 20, more than 15 percent report using alcohol in the prior month.
  • Of those aged 18 to 20, almost 18 percent report binge drinking in the prior month.

Ultimately, we are all directly or indirectly affected by underage drinking. One bright spot is that, according to some reporting, underage drinking and binge drinking in Atlanta and across the State of Georgia are both trending below the national average.

Minor in Possession of Alcohol

The charge of underage drinking in Georgia is minor in possession of alcohol (MIP), and the law prohibits all the following:

  • Purchasing, attempting to purchase, or being in possession of alcohol by someone who is under the age of 21
  • Furnishing someone who is under the age of 21 with alcohol
  • Misrepresenting one's identity or age in order to purchase alcohol, which includes using a fake ID

The only exception when it comes to underage drinking is when the underage individual is in their parents' presence, has their parents' permission, and is in a private residence at the time.

Fines and Penalties

The charge of minor in possession of alcohol carries a fine of up to $300 and up to 6 months of jail time. This is in addition to a mandatory driver's license suspension, which generally lasts at least 6 months. If you are ultimately convicted, you can also face requirements that involve community service and alcohol education. And if the charge is not your first, the legal consequences will be even stiffer.

Social Consequences

It's also important to take the social consequences associated with MIP charges into careful consideration. To begin, your standing in the community can take a serious hit. It can also be far more difficult for you to find a job, to rent an apartment, and to further your education in accordance with your goals for the future.

Call an Experienced Georgia Underage-Drinking Defense Lawyer Today

The accomplished Georgia underage-drinking defense attorneys at Banks, Stubbs & McFarland appreciate how serious the consequences of a MIP conviction can be, and we are committed to fiercely advocating for your case's best possible resolution. Contact us online or call 770-887-1209 today.