When you need an attorney for charges of being drunk in public and underage drinking in VA, call us first. The Lawrence Law Firm, PLC offers strong defense to uphold your rights on public drinking offenses. There are different laws for those over and under the age of 21 who drink excessively in public. Review your rights by consulting with Attorney David Lawrence in Roanoke. Call (540) 904-0985 today or contact us online for a personal consultation about the offense.
Similar to other states, under Virginia law it is illegal to be drunk or otherwise intoxicated in a public place. Being drunk in public can result in serious charges, including fines of up to $250. For those with previous convictions of certain alcohol or drug-related crimes, you may face additional penalties. These include fines of up to $2,500 or up to a year in jail, or both.
Instead of incurring a public intoxication charge, police may escort you into protective custody or a substance abuse treatment center. This depends upon the discretion of the police officer and your own consent. The best defense against a public intoxication conviction for those over 21 is having a skilled attorney on your side. The Lawrence Law Firm, PLC serves residents of Southwest Virginia.
In Virginia, like other states in the U.S., only those 21 years of age and older may consume alcohol legally. Underage drinking can carry severe penalties for everyone involved. This includes any adult who provides the underage person with alcohol.
Underage drinking can yield Class 1 misdemeanor charges that include all or a variation of penalties. These consist of a fine of up to $2,500, a year in jail, and 50 hours of community service. Conviction could cause the loss of your driver’s license for up to a year, and court-ordered mandatory substance abuse counseling.
Law enforcement is liable to charge any person under 21 who attempts to purchase or possess alcohol with this misdemeanor. The Lawrence Law Firm, PLC offers criminal defense for underage drinking and other types of juvenile crimes. We can also help with other traffic-related offenses such as speeding tickets, reckless driving, and DUI/DWI charges. Contact us when you need a defense attorney for charges of being drunk in public and underage drinking in VA.
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