Charged with Underage Drinking? Here’s What You Need to Know

For many college students, the start of a new semester means Saturday tailgates, fall formals, and evenings downtown. While it is no secret that most college students consume alcohol, North Carolina strictly prohibits and enforces the underage purchase, possession, and consumption of alcohol.

In attempt to bypass the laws regarding underage drinking, it’s common for underage individuals to get a fake ID – whether it be a hand-me-down id from a relative or one artificially made overseas. North Carolina strictly prohibits the use and possession of these types of fictitious identifications.

Violations of underage drinking and fake ID laws can result in significant consequences, including the possibility of jail time, the entry of a permanent criminal record, expensive court costs and fines, and in some situations, the mandatory suspension of your drivers license for 12 months, with no possibility of a limited driving privilege.

Underage Alcohol Offenses

In North Carolina, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 years old to (1) purchase, (2) attempt to purchase, (3) possess, and/or (4) consume alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine, seltzers, liquor, or mixed beverages. Punishments for underage alcohol violations depend on the individual’s age at the time of the offense:

Under 19 years old: Class 1 misdemeanor

• Up to 120 days in jail
• Nearly $200 in court costs
• Fines in the judge’s discretion

19 or 20 years old: Class 3 misdemeanor

• Up to 20 days in jail
• Nearly $200 in court costs
• Fines up to $200

Fictitious/Fraudulent Identifications

North Carolina law also prohibits the possession of fake IDs, as well as their use. Underage individuals are prohibited from using a fake ID to (1) enter or attempt to enter a place in which alcohol is sold or consumed, or (2) obtain or attempt to obtain alcoholic beverages.

Violations of this provision are a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 120 days in jail, court costs around $200, and fines in the discretion of the judge.

Mandatory 1-Year Revocation of License for Certain Alcohol-Related Offenses

Certain alcohol-related offenses can also lead to the mandatory 12 month suspension of your driver’s license. The following charges, if convicted, result in the automatic 12-month suspension of your drivers license, with no limited driving privilege:

• Purchasing or attempting to purchase alcohol underage;
• Using a Fake ID to enter/attempt to enter a place where alcohol is sold; and
• Using a Fake ID to purchase/attempt to purchase alcohol underage

Underage alcohol related offenses carry severe consequences that could affect your academic standing, leave you with a permanent criminal record, result in costly financial burdens, and even affect your ability to drive for 12 months. If you have been charged with an underage alcohol related offense, contact The Robinson Law Firm today.

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