Defending Underage Drinking Charges in Salisbury, MD

Alcohol offenses are among the prevailing crimes committed in Maryland. However, most of them are often outside the typical DUI and DWI offenses. One such is underage drinking. While underage drinking charges may seem like a small inconvenience and do not carry significant jail sentences upon being found guilty, they still need to be taken with utter seriousness.

The possibility of a permanent conviction may be in play especially if the defendant has cases of recurring charges. Hence, understanding the implications of underage drinking charges in Salisbury, MD, while seeking ways to avoid its occurrence. However, should your kid be charged for underage drinking, finding the right lawyer can make the difference in your case.

The Prevalence of Underage Drinking

Drinking before the age of 21 is regarded as underage drinking in Maryland. And oftentimes, underage drinking charges accompany a charge of DUI or DWI. These are crimes Maryland courts don’t take lightly.

The major reasons why the courts frown at underage drinking simply have to do with the fact that alcohol is the prominent cause of fatal and severe highway injuries. Also, statistics have shown that a higher number of young drivers on alcohol or drugs contribute to injuries.

Hence, underage drinking is prohibited in all state jurisdictions, with the exception that the alcohol was provided by an older immediate family relation and in the confinement of their residence. Violating this provision is tantamount to civil citation which will require a mandatory court appearance.

Consequences of Underage Drinking Charges

Citations or charges for underage drinking may be assumed a minor inconvenience at first, but when they are not handled properly and with professional decency, these seemingly harmless charges could have a permanent and negative impact on a person’s future. The consequences of underage drinking charges include and are not limited to:

A first offense maximum fine of $500 for having alcohol and $1,000 if the offense is repeated.
A possibility of being placed on probation by a district court judge.
An issue of summons for contempt of court or an arrest warrant of the defendant doesn’t show up for court.
A probation term is treated in the same vein as state criminal cases, even though underage drinking is a civil issue. Hence, a person convicted may face the possibility of having a permanent record of guilt for civil violation.
An inability to pay the fine or failing to pay the fine may result in the defendant being held in criminal contempt of the court.
A defendant may lose future employment and educational prospects due to the negative effects of underage drinking charges.
Out-of-pocket mandatory alcohol and drug training programs and courses.
A mandatory community service.