Juvenile Charged with Fake ID

Teenagers Trying to Grow Up Too Fast: The Consequences of Fake IDs

We’ve all been there as teenagers – wanting to go to cool parties or clubs with our older friends, or just feeling like we should be treated like an adult before we really are one. But using a fake ID can land teens in some truly hot water if they get caught. Let’s take a look at what’s going on when a juvenile gets charged for using false identification, the potential penalties they face, and whether there are any defenses that could help.

The Lowdown on Fake IDs

First off, it’s illegal in all 50 states for minors to use fake IDs to purchase alcohol, get into bars, buy cigarettes, or anything else considered an “age-restricted” activity. Most states punish both minors who use false IDs and people who manufacture or sell them. Penalties range from fines all the way up to felony charges and jail time in some cases.

But why do so many teens take the risk anyway? For many, it’s a case of wanting to fit in and not be left out when their friends are going out. Peer pressure is real, and the teen brain isn’t fully developed when it comes to assessing risks and consequences. Of course, some youth are just thrill-seekers looking to party. But for most, it’s an attempt to grapple with the transition between childhood and adulthood – the desire for independence coupled with lack of maturity.

Typical Charges for Juveniles Using Fake IDs

There’s a wide range of possible charges for juveniles caught with false identification – it depends on the specifics of the situation and varies between states. Some common charges include:

• Possession of a fictitious or fraudulent ID card – a misdemeanor in most states, punishable by fines up to $1000 or more and up to 1 year in jail.
• Identity theft – a felony charge if the teen uses a real person’s identity without their consent. This can mean substantial fines and even prison time.
• Using false info to obtain an ID card – another misdemeanor with similar fines and jail time as possession charges.
• Providing false documentation to obtain alcohol or cigarettes – typically fines of several hundred dollars for a first offense.
• Driving under the influence as a minor – loss of license and heavy fines if caught driving after using a fake ID to obtain alcohol.

And those are just a sampling – there are numerous other potential charges depending on what the juvenile actually did with the false identification. The penalties get much steeper if they break additional laws in the process.

Defense Strategies for Juveniles Facing Fake ID Charges

The underage offender is looking at an uphill battle once the fake ID charges are filed. But there are a few approaches a defense attorney might take to mitigate the penalties:

• Argue the search was unlawful – if the ID was obtained through an improper search by school officials or police, evidence may be suppressed.
• Dispute that the ID is fake – in some cases, the prosecution may not have definitive proof the ID isn’t real. This argument likely won’t get the charge dismissed but could reduce the penalties.
• Claim the juvenile didn’t know the ID was fake – minors can sometimes claim they thought the ID was legitimate and escape charges. But this is a tough sell if the ID looks obviously false.
• Show proof of community service or counseling – demonstrating that the teen is committed to making better choices can convince the judge to go easy in sentencing.
• Request deferred adjudication – this allows the defendant to avoid conviction if they successfully complete a probationary period. The charge is dismissed if probation is finished with no issues.

But perhaps the best strategy is for the juvenile to be humble, honest and sincerely apologetic when facing the judge. Admitting the mistake and taking responsibility goes a long way compared to excuses or blaming others. The judge may see the incident as a youthful indiscretion rather than a reflection of the teen’s true character.

A Teachable Moment for Making Better Decisions

The consequences of using false identification can be severe for teens. But it can also serve as a valuable life lesson if they take responsibility for their actions. The experience provides the opportunity to learn from their mistakes, make wiser choices going forward, and avoid jeopardizing their future over youthful misjudgment. Parents and schools also need to understand the mindset that drives kids to fake IDs and help steer them toward smarter alternatives.

With guidance and empathy, a brush with the law for fake ID possession can ultimately help young people get back on the right track and grow into responsible adults. The teen years are all about learning to make mature decisions – an encounter with the justice system, as painful as it may be, could be the wake-up call that prevents much bigger mistakes down the road. If we help kids view the experience as a teachable moment rather than a humiliating failure, they hopefully emerge wiser and more law-abiding citizens.