Underage Drinking – Juvenile Crimes

Defending Your Child’s Future Against Juvenile Crime Charges

Underage drinking by individuals under the age of 21 is against the law in Pennsylvania. Nevertheless, it is a common occurrence among teens in high school and those in Pennsylvania colleges and universities. Situations can occur in which police officers show up at a party, arrest everyone there, and charge your son or daughter for this offense. While it is considered the lowest level of criminal offense (or a “summary” offense), it can still show up on one’s criminal record and cannot be expunged until five years have passed without any new arrests or prosecutions. 

If you are the parent of someone who has been arrested for underage drinking, your first consideration should be to hire a reputable criminal defense attorney. It is vital to have representation by a professional who will do everything possible to protect your child’s future. Making one small mistake of this nature should not diminish his or her chances for future employment, higher education, or other opportunities. At Logue Law Group, we are here to provide the assistance you need with defense designed to prevent or minimize the criminal and collateral damage that this offense can cause.

Request a free case evaluation with our Pittsburgh underage drinking attorney at Logue Law Group. Contact us online or at (412) 612-2210 to get started.

Underage Drinking in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, any person under the age of 21 is prohibited from:

• Possessing or consuming alcohol
• Buying or trying to buy alcohol
• Intentionally and knowingly transporting alcohol

When someone underage is arrested for drinking, parents are notified. In Pittsburgh, these cases are then heard in municipal courts. In the surrounding counties, they are heard in magisterial district courts. 

If found guilty of underage drinking, the following penalties can apply:

• A first offense carries a $500 fine. Fines are doubled for subsequent offenses. 
• A second or subsequent offense may result in a license suspension. 
• The offense will show up on the alleged offender’s criminal record because it counts as a criminal conviction.
• When applying for jobs and colleges, a person will often have to answer questions about arrests and convictions.
• Underage drinking convictions will show up on background checks. These checks are commonly part of the application process for jobs, schools, and professional licensing boards before a person can be hired, accepted, or granted a professional license.

How Logue Law Group Can Help

Our firm has defended many clients in juvenile crime cases in the local courts. We will remain by your side throughout the process and are committed to doing everything legally possible to secure a favorable outcome.

Schedule a free consultation by calling (412) 612-2210 or contacting us online.