In Pennsylvania, the legal drinking age is 21 years old. If you’re caught in possession of alcohol underage, you may need the help of a criminal defense attorney. Even though you have many rights as an adult at the age of 18, the drinking age in the state is still 21. Our criminal defense attorneys explain underage drinking and minor in possession in Pennsylvania.
What happens if you get caught drinking under 21 in PA?
If you get caught drinking under 21 in Pennsylvania, you may face a summary charge that can lead to a fine. In addition, your driver’s license may be suspended for up to 90 days. When a minor is caught drinking and driving under 21, they may face serious drunk driving criminal charges.
Individuals who are caught drinking under 21 in PA may face:
– Summary court proceedings
– Trial in front of a judge to determine guilt
– Fines and court costs
– Penalties at school or other organizations
– Reporting for entry into the military
– Alcohol education and victim impact education
– Reporting to parents and guardians
What is the penalty for minor in possession in Pennsylvania?
For a first offense minor in possession, the individual may receive a fine of up to $500. For a repeat offense, the possible fine is as high as $1,000. In addition, the person may face a suspension of their driver’s license. If the individual is convicted of trying to get alcohol by lying about their age, they may receive a fine of $500 or a misdemeanor charge for a repeat offense. You have a right to a hearing on the charges against you.
Do you have the right to a jury trial for underage drinking in Pennsylvania?
Underage drinking in Pennsylvania is a summary offense. For this reason, you do not have the right to a jury trial for underage drinking in Pennsylvania. However, underage drinking is still a serious allegation with lasting penalties. It may appear on your record, impact your driver’s license and even impact job applications or entry into the military. A criminal defense attorney can help you address the allegations against you in order to exercise your rights and respond in the best possible way when you face a charge of underage drinking.
Are there any exceptions to underage drinking laws for medical emergencies in PA?
Yes, there is an exception in Pennsylvania’s underage drinking laws for medical emergencies. If a person calls 9-1-1 to seek help or otherwise calls for medical attention, they are generally immune from prosecution for underage drinking. If you or someone else needs medical help, you can seek it on their behalf without fear of criminal prosecution for underage drinking.
What to do if you get caught drinking under 21 in PA
If you get caught drinking under 21 in PA, how you handle the situation may impact your future. You have the right to help from a criminal defense lawyer. Contact our legal team today to talk about your case.
