Wilmington Underage Drinking Lawyer

Wilmington Underage Drinking Attorney

Many people in Wilmington enjoy socializing and having fun with their peers. However, many residents are arrested for underage drinking. If you are facing an underage drinking charge, then you should consider reaching out to a Wilmington underage drinking lawyer. Protecting your legal rights can help you get back to focusing on your education and career goals.

The criminal defense attorneys in Wilmington at The Shotwell Law Group PLLC understand how stressed defendants can feel when they are being charged with an underage drinking offense. Our team has years of experience helping clients enforce their legal rights and ensure they do everything within their power to protect their liberty. We are here to help you get through this difficult period of time.

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Understanding Underage Drinking Laws in North Carolina

The statute related to underage drinking in North Carolina is G.S. § 18B-302. Any person younger than twenty-one years of age is not legally permitted to obtain, possess, or use alcohol. Those who are charged with underage drinking are often college students, and these individuals may face consequences from the institutions they attend, depending on the nature and severity of the underage drinking charge.

If you are charged with underage drinking in North Carolina, then you may face monetary penalties, mandatory community service, and a period of incarceration. Also, many defendants are required to attend alcohol education classes to help them learn about the dangers associated with alcohol use disorder. These consequences can take considerable time and energy.

It is necessary that you understand the facts of your case and communicate all the details of the arrest to an attorney. A skilled underage drinking lawyer will scrutinize this evidence and ensure that no law enforcement officer violated your legal rights.

The Juvenile Justice System and Underage Drinking Charges

A criminal defense attorney familiar with the juvenile justice system can provide you with more information if the person arrested for underage drinking is a juvenile. These individuals may qualify for diversion programs, which can help them continue pursuing their educational goals while completing the program requirements.

It can be beneficial for you to work with an attorney if your child has been arrested for underage drinking. By educating and assisting juveniles who have been arrested for criminal offenses, professionals can reduce the likelihood that they will commit future offenses. Juvenile justice diversion programs also provide helpful resources regarding substance abuse and its long-term consequences.

The Reasons to Hire an Underage Drinking Lawyer

A criminal defense attorney can help you challenge the evidence the state uses in your case. Law enforcement officers may not have followed procedure before or after the arrest. The facts of your case will dictate which defenses may apply to an underage drinking charge. A skilled lawyer will be able to determine how to inform you of the potential defenses you may assert.

All communications between you and your attorney will also be protected by the attorney-client privilege. A legal advocate will also be able to represent you at hearings and speak on your behalf to help you strengthen your defense. Also, a criminal defense attorney will be able to advise you of the upcoming proceedings related to your case and ensure you do not miss any important filings or deadlines.

North Carolina Underage Drinking Statistics

Fatalities among individuals between sixteen and twenty years old increased approximately thirty percent between 2019 and 2020. Underage drinking is also linked to heightened risks of alcohol use disorder in adults. The state of North Carolina loses $41.2 million every day due to excessive alcohol consumption among residents.

FAQs About Wilmington, NC Underage Drinking Law

What Happens if You Get Caught Underage Drinking in North Carolina?

Those who are caught underage drinking in Wilmington, NC, will face a misdemeanor charge, which will go on their permanent criminal record. A 120-day period of incarceration may be imposed. Court fees and administrative fines will be assessed. Also, many individuals will need to perform community service and attend an alcohol education course.

How Much Does an Underage Drinking Lawyer Cost in North Carolina?

The legal fees associated with legal representation for an underage drinking charge typically range, depending on the complexity of the case. Many criminal defense lawyers charge a one-time fee for all representation, including pre-trial matters. If the attorney does not charge a single fee, then they may charge an hourly rate.

Does Underage Drinking Stay on Your Record?

An underage drinking conviction goes on a defendant’s criminal record. The offense is generally classified as a misdemeanor under North Carolina law. If you are concerned about an underage conviction staying on your record, then you may need to speak to an attorney about having the record expunged once you turn twenty-one years of age.

Can a Minor Drink Alcohol With Parents in North Carolina?

It is illegal for anyone under the age of twenty-one to possess or use alcohol in North Carolina. Minors cannot drink alcohol with their parents under North Carolina law. Individuals who provide minors with alcohol can be charged with a criminal offense and face community service, fines, and a period of incarceration.

Contact The Shotwell Law Group PLLC Today if You Need an Underage Drinking Lawyer

Criminal charges related to underage drinking can often cause arrestees and their family members to feel anxious and ashamed. You do not have to face these charges on your own, and reaching out for legal support can help you obtain the resources you need to protect your legal rights. Our team is prepared to answer your questions about underage drinking offenses.

The criminal defense attorneys at The Shotwell Law Group PLLC understand how to defend individuals who have been charged with underage drinking. Our team of North Carolina underage drinking lawyers can provide you with legal counsel and advice regarding effective defenses.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a member of our experienced legal team and review the facts of your case. Having trusted legal support on your side can improve the chances of successfully resolving your case.