Steps to Take After Being Charged with an Underage Alcohol Crime in Indiana

Bad decisions are a part of growing up. Unfortunately, some decisions can lead to more trouble than others. While underage drinking is certainly not out of the norm, it can cause significant legal trouble. Being convicted of an underage alcohol crime can lead to fines, community service, and incarceration in a juvenile or adult facility. Even after your sentence has been completed, you may still face difficulties in different aspects of your life. There are certain actions you can take while facing an underage drinking charge to avoid these consequences.

An underage drinking lawyer will provide the best advice when it comes to avoiding an underage drinking conviction. If you or a loved one is facing an accusation of underage drinking in Indiana, contact Hessler Law, PC for help from an experienced Indianapolis defense lawyer. Attorney Sean Hessler will suggest a legal course of action for your specific situation.

To schedule a free and confidential case consultation, contact us today at (317) 886-8800.

What Charges are You Facing?

In Indiana, as in all states, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to consume, transport, or possess alcohol. It is also illegal in Indiana for anyone under 21 to misrepresent their age in order to obtain alcohol. If you’re under the age of 18, you may not enter a bar or location that serves alcohol without a parent or guardian who is over 21. For parties who are 18 to 20-years-old, these offenses are considered class C misdemeanors, and can be tried in adult courts. Indiana juvenile courts have jurisdiction over minors who are charged with consumption or possession of alcohol.

Show Up to Your Court Hearing

In many cases when you receive a citation for an underage alcohol crime, your ticket will have a court date on it. This is the date on which you’re scheduled to appear before a judge. While it may seem tempting to simply not show up, this is not a good idea. If you do not appear before the court on your assigned date, judgment will automatically be entered against you. In addition, the judge can then put out a warrant for your arrest.

Recall the Details of Your Arrest as Clearly as Possible

There are defenses that may cause your underage drinking charge to be reduced or dismissed. Several of these reasons concern the process law enforcement has to follow in order for you to be charged. After you’re charged, make sure you remember as much about the process as possible. When you employ the help of a lawyer, this information will be critical in helping them develop a defense on your behalf.

Do Not Consume Any More Alcohol While You are Underage

There are several reasons it’s a good idea not to drink while fighting an underage consumption or possession case. For one thing, it may be possible to have the court reduce or dismiss your charges. Good behavior on your part can serve as useful evidence in convincing the court to do this. Additionally, a second underage drinking charge will only increase the potential punishment you face. The court is far less likely to be lenient with your sentence if you have more than one underage charge on your record.

Speak to a Lawyer About Your Underage Alcohol Crime

The most important step you can take when fighting against an underage alcohol charge is finding an experienced underage drinking attorney. Hessler Law, PC should be the first call for anyone seeking a defense against an underage alcohol offense in Indianapolis. Attorney Sean Hessler offers free consultations. To schedule an appointment, contact us today at (317) 886-8800.