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Underage drinking is a common yet serious offense that can lead to significant consequences for minors. Beyond the immediate legal penalties, an underage drinking conviction can impact a young person’s future in ways many don’t realize. A criminal record can have lasting effects, from college applications to job opportunities. If your child has been charged with underage drinking, a skilled criminal defense attorney can make a difference by protecting their rights, reducing penalties, and helping preserve their future.
Understanding Underage Drinking Laws
In North Carolina, anyone under 21 is prohibited from purchasing, possessing, or consuming alcohol. Even being in possession of an unopened container can lead to charges. Underage drinking laws are strictly enforced, and consequences can include:
- Fines
- Community service
- Alcohol education programs
- Potential jail time
More severe penalties can follow if the offense involves aggravating factors, such as:
- Fake IDs
- Public intoxication
- Driving under the influence
The stakes are high, so having knowledgeable legal representation is essential.
How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help
Hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney at Hancock Law Firm offers several advantages if your child is facing an underage drinking charge:
Knowledge of the Juvenile Justice System
Our team understands the complexities of the law and the options available within the juvenile justice system. Unlike adults, minors are often eligible for alternatives to traditional sentencing, such as diversion programs. We can help your child access these alternatives, keeping their record clean and avoiding penalties that could disrupt their education or career prospects.
Reducing Charges or Negotiating Plea Deals
By carefully examining the evidence and circumstances surrounding the arrest, an attorney may uncover procedural errors, a lack of probable cause, or other grounds for challenging the charges. This type of defense work requires a deep understanding of juvenile law and criminal defense strategy, skills our experienced attorney brings to the table.
Avoiding a Criminal Record
One of the biggest concerns parents have about underage drinking charges is the potential for a lasting criminal record. In North Carolina, juvenile records are typically sealed, but there are instances where charges can remain on record, or the case could be transferred to adult court. A criminal defense attorney works to prevent such outcomes by advocating for alternative programs, such as:
- Community service
- Alcohol education courses
- Counseling
These alternatives can help dismiss or seal the case, teaching responsibility without causing lasting harm to a young person’s reputation or future.
Moreover, many juvenile cases may be eligible for expungement, which allows for removing a charge from a young person’s record. Expungement can be especially beneficial for college applications and career opportunities, enabling young adults to move forward without a criminal record. Our team can guide you through the expungement process, providing additional protection for your child’s future.
The Value of Legal Guidance
Dealing with the justice system can be intimidating for anyone, especially young people. Our criminal defense attorney acts will be your child’s advocate in court and guide them through the process in an accessible and reassuring manner. Knowing that someone is in their corner, advocating for their rights, can help alleviate the stress of a courtroom experience.
For parents, working with Hancocock Law Firm means having a partner who understands your child’s rights and is committed to achieving the best possible outcome. With our support, you will have peace of mind knowing we will protect your child’s interests, rights, and future.
Talk To a Skilled Juvenile Defense Attorney Today
An underage drinking charge doesn’t have to define a young person’s future. With the right defense strategy, protecting your child’s record and ensuring they can learn from this experience without facing long-term consequences is possible.
At Hancock Law Firm, we provide compassionate, effective defense for families in Carteret County. If your child is facing underage drinking charges, contact us today for a consultation.