Winter months are fast approaching. Teens tend to get overwhelmed by school and activities, and turn to drugs and alcohol to cope or fit in with a certain crowd in Greeley, Evans, and Erie schools. Peer pressure can be an overwhelming force while attending the University of Northern Colorado (UNC). Unfortunately, when teens drink alcohol, they are in danger of being charged with MIP (Minor in Possession of Alcohol – C.R.S. 18-13-122). Here are a few things your kids need to know about this criminal charges in Weld County.
How a Person is Charged with MIP
If a person is under the age of 21 and they drink hard liquor, beer, wine, or any other type of alcoholic beverage, they could face charges of MIP in Logan, Morgan, and Washington County.
An MIP conviction can have a negative effect on your teen’s future.
If a Parent is Present and Gives Permission, You May Not be Charged
There is an affirmative defense to an MIP charge. If an underage person is on private property, and the owner consents to the teen’s drinking alcohol, and the parent or legal guardian is present and gives permission, a teen will not be charged with MIP.
The Sentence Increases with Each Offense
The sentence grows more and more severe each time a person is convicted of MIP, whether from a high school student or a college student at the University of Northern Colorado. Here are the possible sentences for an MIP conviction:
- 1st Offense: Up to 24 hours of public service, a $250 fine, and the possibility of a substance abuse or alcohol evaluation. The record is sealable if the defendant doesn’t receive any additional offenses within 1 year.
- 2nd Offense: Up to 24 hours of public service, up to $500 fine, and a required substance abuse / alcohol evaluation.
- 3rd Offense: Class 2 misdemeanor, up to 1 year in the Weld County Jail, a fine, and alcohol evaluation and treatment.
MIP Charge is Nothing to Laugh At: Work with a Skilled Lawyer
Many teens don’t think being charged with MIP is that big of a deal. Unfortunately, an MIP conviction can have a lasting negative affect on a young person’s life. Weld County District Attorneys view MIP charges extremely seriously. At least 50% of criminal misdemeanors are alcohol related, so DAs and judges work hard to stop alcohol abuse early in life. Tell your kids that being charged with MIP is serious. And, help them keep their driver’s license and protect their future by contacting a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer.
If your teenager faces charges of MIP in Northern Colorado, be smart and tell your kids to exercise their right to remain silent. Then, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney at the O’Malley Law Office for a free consultation at 970-616-6009. Together, we can protect your future.
Image Credit: FreeDigitalPhotos.net – Suriya Kankliang