Key Takeaways
- The Arizona drinking age is 21 years old. Anyone found guilty of using alcohol before the age of 21 can be charged with minor in consumption (MIC), which is a class 1 misdemeanor.
- Juveniles with first-time MIC convictions may face lenient penalties like alcohol education, one year of probation or community service. However, judges may impose criminal convictions with jail time for severe cases.
- In Arizona, minor consumption cases involving deferred prosecution entail a minimum of six months of supervision by a probation officer. Should no new problems emerge, the juvenile’s charges can be dropped, clearing their record.
- To minimize future consequences in terms of work, housing or education, if you are charged with MIC, get quick legal advice from an experienced criminal defense lawyer and look into counseling or support groups that address alcohol use.
Understanding Minor in Consumption
Juveniles and their families need to be aware of Arizona’s drinking laws for minors to minimize both health- and legal-related consequences. In addition to raising the risk of injury and death, consuming alcohol underage can result in legal penalties, such as fines and performing community service.
The Arizona drinking age is 21 years old; ARS 4-244 states that consuming alcohol before turning 21 is unlawful. Any minors found guilty of drinking alcohol can incur minor in consumption (MIC) charges, which can disrupt one’s ability to pursue higher education or employment. ARS 4-246 renders minor in consumption in Arizona a class 1 misdemeanor, and the penalties can vary depending on the severity of the situation, past offenses and other factors.
Being aware of Arizona drinking laws for minors can promote informed decision-making in and out of the courtroom. If you have been convicted of MIC, contact a trusted criminal defense attorney to increase your chance of achieving the best possible outcome.
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What Are the Penalties for Minor in Consumption Charges?
MIC penalties vary depending on multiple factors. Some circumstances courts may consider before determining what penalties a juvenile charged with MIC must face are:
- The age of the offender
- Their level of intoxication during the offense
- The individual’s previous record of possession
- Their history of other unlawful activities
Generally, courts will grant leniency to first offenders and will typically impose the following penalties:
- Alcohol education or addiction programs
- One year probation
- Potential community service
Deferred Prosecution
It is also possible to achieve deferred prosecution in Arizona MIC cases, meaning no judgment is entered. Instead, the offender must meet with a probation officer for at least six months.
If the officer encounters no further problems or criminal behavior, the charges against the juvenile can be dismissed. In this case, the juvenile will have no criminal record.
Extreme Cases
Sometimes, MIC cases can be deemed extreme, especially if they involve other crimes like DUIs or assault. In extreme cases, a judge may impose a criminal conviction with jail time, even for a first offense, if they believe the offender may be a danger to themselves or others.
Even if your case is not extreme, it is essential not to expect a lenient sentence because it is not guaranteed and even less likely without advocacy from an experienced attorney. Some examples of less lenient possible outcomes include:
- Financial Penalties
- Jail sentences
- Revoked driving privileges
The legal consequences above are in addition to the potential long-term impact on employment and educational careers that can accompany MIC charges. You should consult a qualified criminal defense attorney to help obtain the most favorable outcome possible.
Exceptions and Special Circumstances
There are some exceptions that cause certain situations that do not warrant MIC charges. For example, ARS 4-249 permits the dispensing, possession and use of spirituous liquor to those who are not yet of legal drinking age during religious ceremonies or services.
Additionally, minors having a reasonably high blood alcohol content (BAC) are considered legally sound if it is attributed to legitimate medicinal purposes. Many prescribed and over-the-counter drugs include alcohol, reaching up to 25%. Some examples of common medicines that may consist of alcohol include versions of:
- Benadryl
- Cheracol Plus
- Dimetane
- Geritol
- Robitussin
- Sominex
- Tylenol
- Vicks
Having a criminal defense lawyer explore your unique situation and MIC charges can help you check if your particular circumstances warrant any exceptions that negate criminal charges.
Underage Drinking Prevention and Education
Although education should be practiced for all forms of crime prevention, it is especially vital for accounts of underage drinking. Not only can proper alcohol education save minors from legal strife, but it can also save lives. Arizona’s drinking age is appropriately set at 21 to minimize the injuries, deaths and other fallouts that can occur from underage drinking.
Effects of Drinking Alcohol
Drinking alcohol, especially consistently, can lead to many negative effects. Some examples of alcohol effects are:
- Damage to the liver or other organs
- Blackouts or memory lapses that hinder informed decision-making
- Increased likelihood of taking risks and jeopardizing safety
- Dampened mental faculties that can increase vulnerability to exploitation
The effects above can make cases with MICs even more troublesome, jeopardizing the minor’s health as well as their professional and educational endeavors.
Where to Learn More
Search your community for school programs and initiatives focused on using alcohol responsibly and legally to build awareness. If the individual has a consistent drinking problem, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration for help. As an alternative, you can look up alcohol abuse organizations and advocacy groups for substance abuse on Alcohol.org.
Moreover, the Arizona Department of Liquor has a prevention unit that educates community members on the dangers of underage drinking. If you are an Arizona resident who wants to set up a training session or request the prevention unit to attend one of your events, you can contact Detective Luis Samundio at 602-542-9087.
What to Do if You’re Charged With Minor in Consumption in Arizona
If you are charged with MIC in Arizona, you should promptly obtain legal counsel from an experienced criminal defense attorney. A skilled attorney can help create a strong defense plan customized to your particular circumstances in an effort to lessen the possible impact on essential facets of your life, such as work prospects and academic endeavors. Their knowledge can assist you in navigating the legal nuances of an MIC case while defending your rights.
It is often helpful to look for support from organizations or counseling services that focus on difficulties related to alcohol usage. Many websites can offer helpful direction and support in handling and comprehending the effects of alcohol consumption. In addition to helping with urgent legal issues, attending support groups or counseling sessions can help with long-term plans for preserving a positive relationship with alcohol. Proactively seeking help shows a dedication to development and ethical conduct, which can have a favorable impact on the resolution of legal matters and general well-being.
Get Qualified Legal Representation
If you find yourself charged with minor in consumption in Arizona, get legal support from a talented team of attorneys who have experience working with Arizona drinking laws for minors.
At JacksonWhite Law, we help hundreds of clients get through difficult times by providing superior and affordable legal services. Our qualified attorneys have worked with countless individuals younger than the Arizona drinking age, helping them achieve the best possible outcome from their MIC case. If you or your child is facing charges for minor in consumption in Arizona, call us today for a free consultation.
Our defense team has helped families across Phoenix, the East Valley, and all over the state deal with juvenile cases. Contact us today to learn more about minor in consumption charges or for your consultation.
Call the JacksonWhite Criminal Law team at (480) 787-0242 to discuss your case today.
