Three Charged with Underage Drinking in Madison
Recently, three people were arrested on suspicion of underage possession of alcohol and one 31-year-old man has been charged with driving under the influence following a Madison traffic incident. According to a news report in The Madison Patch, the arrests were made when police arrived at the scene following reports that a vehicle became stuck in the woods. Upon arrival, the officer determined that the driver was under the influence and three others were below the age of 21 and in possession of alcohol. Two of the underage arrestees were juveniles.
There are many underage alcohol laws in New Jersey. Under New Jersey Statute 2C:33-17a, it is a criminal offense to provide alcohol to persons under the age of 21. A person who is convicted of this offense could face up to six months in prison and a $1,000 fine. Consumption or possession of alcohol by a minor is a criminal offense under Statute 2C:33-15. When a juvenile is found to be in possession of alcohol, they could face substantial fines as well.
Anyone under the age of 18 found with alcohol may be charged as a minor. In such cases, community service and treatment programs may be available to avoid severe penalties. Underage drinkers over the age of 18 may have to face criminal charges in the regular court system because they cannot be tried in juvenile court anymore. In either case, a skilled lawyer can help have the charges reduced or even dismissed, depending upon the circumstances.
The criminal defense attorneys in New Jersey at Lependorf & Silverstein understand the legal options available to New Jersey residents charged with underage possession. If you or a loved one faces alcohol-related charges in New Jersey, please call our law offices at 609-240-0040 right away for a free consultation.
