MIP (Minor In Possession)

San Diego Minor In Possession of Alcohol Defense Lawyer

College students, high school students and other minors facing charges for the possession of alcohol often think paying the fine is the easy way out. However, minor in possession (MIP) can be a misdemeanor offense and paying the fine may result in a misdemeanor conviction on your criminal record.

Don't Be Shortsighted

A conviction can mean loss of your driver's license for one year and a criminal record. Even a conviction for simple misdemeanor charges, such as minor in possession, can have a significant impact on your future. Your criminal record is a matter of public record - meaning that employers, colleges or universities, and anyone else can view the record. If not handled appropriately, a conviction for minor in possession could jeopardize scholarships, college applications, employment, and much more. In addition, if convicted, your license can be suspended for an entire year - even if you will turn 21 within that year and even if a vehicle was not involved.

California Underage Consumption and Possession

Under California's Business and Professions Code, Section 25662a, generally it is unlawful for persons under the age of 21 to possess alcohol in any public place or on a street or highway.  The question of possession frequently comes into play in defending individuals against charges for minor in possession.

At the Law Office of Jerrold M. Bodow, our criminal defense attorney has had significant success defending clients against underage drinking charges in trial and helping them retain their driving privileges. In addition, we use our knowledge of the specific rules and procedures used in different courts and in front of different judges to determine whether negotiating a plea or proceeding to trial is more likely to secure optimal results. Often a negotiated plea will result in a conviction for a minor infraction rather than a misdemeanor charge - allowing you to keep your driver's license and requiring you to pay only a small fine with no probation.

Keep Your License ∙ Avoid a Criminal Record

If you have been issued a citation for minor in possession/underage drinking, don't just pay the fine. Talk with an experienced defense attorney first. We can be reached toll free by phone at 1-866-676-0259, by e-mail, or by filling out the intake form on our Contact page.