For many Ohio teens and college students, having a few drinks at a party may not seem like a big deal. However, what can seem like a harmless rite of passage can actually cause you to be charged with a crime. The penalties for this offense and could have a dramatic impact on your future. Learn more about the state’s underage drinking laws in the following guide.

What Ohioans Should Know About the State’s Underage Drinking Laws

Minor in Possession of Alcohol

The penalties for underage drinking depend largely on the age of the defendant when they were arrested. In Ohio, anyone under the age of 18 caught possessing alcohol can face fines of up to $250 and a maximum of 30 days in jail. Minors will likely go through the juvenile court system and may be allowed to complete a diversion program and avoid going to trial.

Underage Drinking

If you’re over the age of 18 but not yet 21, the penalties for a conviction can be much more serious. Defendants may be sentenced to up to six months in jail, with fines of up to $1,000. Even if you aren’t intoxicated at the time of your arrest, you can still be charged with a crime if you are found in possession of alcohol.

Underage Drinking & Driving

Any adult driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% is considered legally impaired. However, if you’re under 21, you can be charged with a crime if your BAC is 0.02%.

In Ohio, underage persons will be charged with an OVI or operating a vehicle impaired or under the influence. This is a fourth-degree misdemeanor, punishable by six months in jail and a maximum $1,000 fine. Your license will likely be suspended if it’s a first offense. Your attorney may be able to have some driving privileges restored, but you may only be granted permission to drive to school or work.

If someone you love has been charged with a crime in Butler County, Michael A. Newland Esquire will provide the quality legal representation you need. With over 25 years of experience, this attorney has the knowledge and resources to help you understand your legal options and guide you through every step of this difficult process. Visit his website to learn more about his services, or call (513) 887-9595 to schedule an initial consultation.