Underage Drinking – Juvenile Crimes

Protecting Your Child’s Future From Juvenile Crime Charges

In Pennsylvania, anyone under the age of 21 is legally banned from drinking alcohol. Even so, underage drinking continues to be a common problem among high school and college students across the state. Picture this: a party is in full swing when police arrive without warning, arresting everyone there and charging your son or daughter. Although this is considered the least serious type of criminal offense—called a “summary” offense—it still leaves a mark on a young person’s record. That mark can’t be cleared for five years, and only if there are no further arrests or prosecutions during that period.

If you’re a parent whose child has been arrested for underage drinking, your first move should be to find a trusted attorney who can help. Skilled legal representation can make all the difference in protecting your child’s future. One youthful mistake shouldn’t put their job prospects, college plans, or other opportunities at risk. At Logue Law Group, our experienced New Castle criminal lawyer understands how much is at stake and works hard to defend your child while limiting the lasting effects of this charge.

Take the first step toward safeguarding your child’s future by requesting a free case evaluation with a dedicated underage drinking attorney at Logue Law Group. Reach out to us online or call 412.387.6901 to get started.

Underage Drinking in Pennsylvania

If you live in Pennsylvania, it’s important to understand just how strict the laws around underage drinking really are. Anyone below the age of 21 is forbidden from doing any of the following:

• Possessing or consuming alcohol: It’s illegal for anyone under 21 to hold alcohol or drink it.
• Attempting to purchase alcohol: Trying to buy alcohol while underage is completely off-limits.
• Transporting alcohol: Knowingly and deliberately moving alcohol from one place to another breaks the law.

When someone under 21 is arrested for underage drinking, their parents or guardians are notified right away. In New Castle and the surrounding areas, these cases are usually handled in magisterial district courts, and a knowledgeable New Castle DUI attorney can guide your family through the process from the very beginning.

A conviction for underage drinking can result in a range of penalties. Here’s what you should keep in mind:

• First offense: A first offense comes with a $500 fine. Keep in mind that any later offenses will double that amount.
• License suspension: A second or repeat offense may lead to your driver’s license being suspended.
• Criminal record: An underage drinking conviction shows up on your criminal record. This can create roadblocks when applying for jobs or colleges, since you may be asked about your arrest and conviction history.
• Background checks: These convictions appear on background checks, which are routinely run during job applications, college admissions, and professional licensing reviews.

If your child is facing these consequences in Lawrence County, a seasoned New Castle criminal lawyer can step in to help protect their record and their future opportunities.

How Logue Law Group Can Help

At Logue Law Group, we bring extensive experience to defending clients in juvenile crime cases throughout local courts. Our committed team will stand beside you at every stage of the legal journey, fighting relentlessly to secure the best possible result. With a trusted New Castle DUI attorney on your side, your family won’t have to face the courtroom alone.

Schedule a free, confidential consultation by calling 412.387.6901 or contacting us online. Take the first step toward protecting your future today.