First, What Are Underage Drinking Laws - And Who is Underage?
Simply put, there are laws that attempt to prevent minors from drinking alcohol. And for the purpose of underage drinking laws, the definition of a minor by most states is considered to be 21 - and the national minimum drinking age is also 21 years old. Therefore it is illegal to sell alcohol to anyone under the age of 21.
Some of the affects Underage Drinking Laws Have on Minors
Underage drinking laws impose strict rules on minors in relation to alcohol. Under these laws, it is illegal for minors to:
- Consume alcohol
- Purchase or attempt to purchase alcohol, or possess alcohol.
- Possess a fake ID or otherwise misrepresent their age
The affect Underage Drinking Laws may have on others
Underage drinking laws do not just affect minors. They also prohibit anyone else from contributing to underage drinking. Thus, it is illegal for any person to:
- Buy or give alcohol to a minor
- Allow a minor to consume alcohol on that person's property
- Allow a minor to use that person's ID
- Sell alcohol to anyone under 21, even if they misrepresent their age
Consequences for Minors
Violating underage drinking laws is a misdemeanor. Therefore, punishments for violating underage drinking laws are fairly severe. They include:
- Fines
- Suspension of driver's license
- Community service
- Mandatory alcohol awareness courses
- Possible jail time
Consequences for Adults
The possible consequences of violating underage drinking laws - contributing to the delinquency of a minor, may include:
Contributing to the delinquency of a minor:
Any action by an adult that allows or encourages illegal behavior by a person under the age of 18, or that places children in situations that expose them to illegal behavior. Contributing to the delinquency of a minor can be as simple as keeping a child home from school and thus, making the child a truant. It also can manifest itself in more serious behavior. For example, an adult who commits a crime in the presence of a child can be charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor, as can an adult who serves alcoholic beverages to anyone under the legal drinking age.
What to do, If You Are Accused of Violating the Underage Drinking Laws?
Regardless if you are a minor or an adult, if you are accused of violating the (underage drinking) law, you should contact a lawyer as soon as possible.
Disclaimer:
The legal information provided within this guideline is not warranted or guaranteed for any
purpose. Please consult with a legal professional to determine your rights.
