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The Meaning Of "Minor In Possession" (MIP)

Alcohol is a potentially destructive influence in the hands of a person not responsible enough to accurately judge it's effects. Therefore, United States law makes it an offense for a minor to possess alcohol and initiates a Minor in Possession or MIP charge against any minor suspected of doing so.

The individual states vary in the specific circumstances under which such a charge can be initiated. Each case requires careful analysis by a trained attorney who is familiar with the niceties of the law. Generally speaking, "possession" means that the minor was able to freely consume alcohol. In most cases, it is enough to prove that the minor in question was capable of consuming the alcohol anytime he or she chose to.

This means that alcohol found in the room, or the car that was being driven (or worse, had an accident), or even lying freely on the table on which the minor was sitting, are all circumstances which provide grounds for such a charge.

The Penalties For A Minor Found In Possession Of Alcohol

Various states place different penalties for minors found guilty of possession. However, all of them vary the punishment with the seriousness of the case. Aggravating circumstances could be a situation like being involved in an accident while sitting in a car in which alcohol was freely available. If it is not the first time that the minor is found guilty, the punishment is increased.

Penalties range from small fines, to even jail term.  The Minor in Possession charge is classified as a misdemeanor instead of a full blown felony, and so there are restrictions on the extent of the penalty.

In almost all cases, the driving license of the minor is suspended for various lengths of time, or until they reach the legal age. Contact a Clawson & Clawson, LLP, attorney to find the details of your particular state.

Far Reaching Effects Being Found Guilty

Even if you feel that the penalty isn't great, a conviction can affect your ward's entire future life. Many colleges and employers check for misdemeanors and past convictions before admitting people into their organizations. When it is unearthed that they have been convicted in the past, their image of your ward plummets, and it might be impossible to reverse the damage.

Never take an MIP charge lightly. If your son or daughter has been charged with the possession of Alcohol, call our Clawson & Clawson, LLP, attorneys immediately.  We have experience in getting these charges dropped by thoroughly investigating each case and bringing to the forefront those circumstances that will convince a judge of your ward's innocence.

In addition, some states allow the charge to be struck from the records once the minor becomes a major. In order to find out more, give our attorneys a call and ensure that your ward isn't affected by a hasty action in his past. After all, we all make mistakes, and as custodians, it is our duty to protect our charges.