It's a Bigger Deal Than You Might Think
In small Minnesota cities, underage drinking is tolerated to some degree by the local culture. The law, however, does not turn a blind eye. Ours is one of many states that has laws prohibiting underage persons from drinking even small amounts of alcohol.
At Reppe Law PLLC, in Northfield, Minnesota, we have experience defending young people who have been cited for underage alcohol offenses. While many people may tell you "it's no big deal," we can tell you that it is. A criminal record can have serious implications for your future.
To discuss your situation with an experienced lawyer, call us at 507-581-5720.
Dakota County/Rice County Minor in Possession Attorney
In Minnesota, it is illegal to drink or possess alcohol if you are younger than 21 years of age. If you are cited for underage drinking, you could lose your license, be obliged to pay a fine, or even spend time in jail. If you are arrested with alcohol on your person or in close proximity, you could face a fine and a court date.
Penalties that apply to underage drinkers include:
- Fines of up to $3,000
- Driver's license suspension
- Required alcohol and drug awareness classes
- Community service
- Probation
Underage DUI/DWI - Zero Tolerance for Drinking and Driving
Minnesota has strict drinking and driving laws. Any driver who is determined to have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of greater than .08 percent — the equivalent of a couple to a few drinks, depending on the person — can face serious penalties.
The laws are more stringent regarding underage drivers. Minnesota law has zero tolerance for underage drinking and driving, even when trace amounts of alcohol are present. Penalties are in addition to usual DWI penalties and increase depending on the BAC of the accused minor.
'Not a Drop' Is Not a Joke
Minnesota's "not a drop" law applies to individuals older than 18 but younger than 21. Persons in this age group who have even a small amount of alcohol in their systems can face driver's license revocation for 30 days or longer, and a restricted license thereafter. Additional charges may also apply.
Vanessa's Law
Since 2004, Vanessa's Law has applied to minors under the age of 18 who are accused of drinking and driving, open bottle, underage drinking, and other alcohol-related offenses. Any teen convicted under this law is ineligible to drive until age 18.
For teens involved in a crash that occurs under the influence of alcohol, additional penalties apply, including:
- Required a driver education course
- Required passage of written driver's license test
- Payment of expensive fees to reinstate driver's license
- Completion of a three-month "trial period" with a learner's permit before full license privileges are restored
A Conviction Can Follow You Forever
Perhaps the biggest issue relating to any alcohol-related citation is the conviction that comes with it. A conviction for any crime will appear on your record and in background checks by future employers, colleges and graduate schools.
Whether or not you are inclined to pay your underage possession or drinking citation, it is important to understand that doing so is the same as pleading guilty to the offense. It will go on your record as a conviction and can only be removed by a later expungement process, if applicable.
Don't Plead Guilty - Get Legal Advice - 507-581-5720
Likewise, it is never a good idea to plead guilty to an underage DWI. You have little to gain, and everything to lose. Let our experienced Northfield underage drinking defense attorneys assist you.
For a free consultation of your circumstances, contact us online or by calling 507-581-5720 today.
