Home » Kennesaw Criminal Defense Lawyer » Kennesaw Minor in Possession of Alcohol Lawyer

Kennesaw Minor in Possession of Alcohol Lawyer

If you or your child has been cited for underage possession or consumption of alcohol in Kennesaw, securing representation from the Ghanouni Teen & Young Adult Defense Firm is crucial. Our team has extensive experience defending people in their teens and twenties against charges like these.

We will gain an understanding of your goals and circumstances to formulate an effective defense strategy aimed at achieving a favorable resolution. Don’t take on the legal system alone – our firm advocates for teens and adults in their twenties in these situations.

Georgia’s Minor in Possession Laws | OCGA § 3-3-23

According to OCGA § 3-3-23, the legal drinking age is 21, meaning if the police catch you with alcohol and you’re under 21, they could charge you with a minor in possession (MIP).

Now, there are a few exceptions to this rule:

• If a doctor prescribes alcohol for medical reasons.
• If you use alcohol in a religious ceremony (like communion wine).
• If a parent or guardian gives you alcohol in their own home and under their supervision.

Outside of these specific situations, possessing alcohol when you’re underage is illegal.

Penalties for MIP of Alcohol in Kennesaw

If you are convicted of an MIP charge, the penalties you face depend on your age:

• Those 17 and older will be treated as adults and face misdemeanor charges. This could potentially result in jail time and a permanent criminal record.
• If you’re 16 or younger, your case would go to Cobb County Juvenile Court instead of adult court. But that does not mean you’re off the hook – the judge could still order community service, alcohol education classes, or even put you on probation.

If you or a loved one is facing minor in possession charges in Kennesaw, do not delay in taking action. Secure representation from the Ghanouni Teen & Young Adult Defense Firm right away to ensure you have an experienced defense attorney protecting your future.

Defending Against Minor in Possession Charges

Just because the police charge you with MIP doesn’t mean you’ll be convicted.

Depending on the circumstances of your case, your experienced legal counsel might:

• Negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or alternative sentencing, such as a pre-trial diversion;
• Challenge the evidence against you (e.g., law enforcement didn’t follow proper procedure);
• Question whether the police had probable cause to arrest you; or
• Examine the specific circumstances of your alleged offense.

The goal is to minimize the impact of an MIP charge on your life, both now and in the future.

Why Experienced Legal Representation Is Necessary

Being charged with possession of alcohol in Georgia doesn’t have to define your future.

An experienced MIP defense lawyer with our firm understands the state’s criminal and juvenile justice system and how to protect your future throughout the process.

Your attorney will work with you to develop a personalized legal strategy that considers your unique needs and goals.

The Ghanouni Teen & Young Adult Defense Firm has years of experience handling MIP cases in Kennesaw and throughout Georgia.

Our criminal defense law firm works alongside you to build a defense strategy based on your goals and the circumstances of your case. This informs every step we take during the process, whether negotiating with prosecutors, challenging evidence in court, or fighting for alternative sentencing options.

Protect Your Future – Call Our MIP Defense Lawyers

The Ghanouni Teen & Young Adult Defense Firm knows what’s at stake when facing an MIP charge. One moment shouldn’t define the rest of your life.

Our criminal defense law firm will help protect your future, listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and give you the guidance and support you need every step of the way.

Contact us today to request a confidential consultation to better your teen’s chances of minimizing MIP impacts on his or her future.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is underage drinking a felony in Georgia?
No, underage drinking or minor in possession of alcohol is a misdemeanor offense in Georgia, not a felony.

How long does a MIP stay on your record in Georgia?
A minor in possession conviction will stay on your criminal record permanently as a misdemeanor offense in Georgia unless the proper steps are taken to resolve your case in a way that it can be sealed. This can potentially impact future employment, housing, and other opportunities.

Can you drink under 21 with a parent in Georgia?
Yes, there is an exception in Georgia’s laws that allows underage drinking by minors if it occurs at the private residence of the parent/guardian and with their permission and supervision.

However, this exception only applies in that specific situation at the parent/guardian’s private residence. Minors caught possessing or consuming alcohol in any other setting can still face minor in possession charges, even if their parent gave them the alcohol.