What are the penalties for a minor in possession of alcohol in New Jersey?

Underage drinking is a big problem in New Jersey and across the country. As a minor, you need to be aware of the serious legal consequences you could face if caught with alcohol. This article will break down the specific laws, fines, and penalties around underage drinking and possession of alcohol in NJ.

Underage Drinking Laws in New Jersey

In New Jersey, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to purchase, possess, or consume alcoholic beverages. This applies to possession in public places, motor vehicles, schools, and other locations. There are some exceptions, like if your parents allow you to drink at home or for religious purposes, but in general it is against the law.

The legal drinking age in New Jersey is 21. This law is taken very seriously, and both minors and adults who provide alcohol to minors can face consequences.

Fines for Underage Possession of Alcohol

If you are under 21 and caught with alcohol, you will face fines between $500-$1000 just for possession. This is considered a disorderly persons offense. The fines could be even higher if there are additional circumstances, like if you used a fake ID to obtain the alcohol.

Potential Jail Time

In addition to fines, a minor convicted of underage possession of alcohol may also face up to 180 days in jail. Whether jail time is imposed depends on factors like if it is a first offense, the amount of alcohol, cooperation with authorities, and other circumstances. But it is a possibility in NJ for underage drinking charges.

Driver’s License Suspension

If you have a NJ driver’s license and are convicted of possessing alcohol underage, your license will be suspended for 6 months to 2 years. If you don’t have a license yet, getting one will be postponed. Having an underage drinking offense on your record can also impact your car insurance rates in the future.

Community Service & Rehab Programs

Judges often order underage drinkers to complete community service or attend rehab and alcohol awareness programs. You may have to participate in a treatment program or intervention for up to 6 months. The goal is to prevent repeat offenses.

What About Driving Under the Influence?

It’s not just possessing alcohol that can get you in legal trouble. Driving under the influence is illegal and dangerous for all ages. In New Jersey, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for drivers under 21 is 0.01%. Just one drink could put you over the limit.

The penalties for underage DUI include fines, license suspension, and even jail time. And it goes on your permanent criminal record. If you’ve been drinking, don’t drive. Call a sober friend or rideshare, or have your parents pick you up.

Defenses Against Underage Drinking Charges

If you are facing charges as a minor for possession of alcohol, it’s important to work with an experienced criminal defense attorney. A lawyer may be able to get charges reduced or dismissed based on certain defenses, such as:

• You were not in actual physical possession of the alcohol
• The alcohol was for religious purposes
• You were lawfully supervised by a guardian
• There was no probable cause for police to stop or search you

Never try to represent yourself in court against underage drinking charges. The laws are complex and you need a lawyer on your side.

Get Legal Help Today

Underage drinking is a serious offense with severe penalties in New Jersey. The best thing is to avoid alcohol altogether until you turn 21. But if you do find yourself facing charges, don’t panic. Contact an experienced underage drinking lawyer in NJ for help protecting your rights and future.

With legal guidance, many underage offenders can get charges reduced or avoided altogether. Don’t let one mistake haunt you – get a free case review now.