The Legal Consequences of underage drinking in Georgia

Teenagers often have a false notion that mistakes they make while they are young do not have lifetime consequences. Nothing could be further from the truth. This misperception may be the result of depictions on television, in the movies, or on social media where underage drinking is seen as normal and without consequences. We urge you to think about the long-term consequences of underage drinking and behave accordingly.

First of all, if you are under the age of 21, it is illegal to drink alcohol in Georgia, and those who consume alcohol they are jeopardizing their future. When an underage person consumes any amount of alcoholic beverage, they can be charged with minor in possession of alcohol. Also, the “legal limit” for an underage DUI is only .02, meaning almost any alcohol consumption can result in a underage DUI arrest.

A Minor in Possession of Alcohol charge in Georgia can remain on your criminal record for the rest of your life. You can be charged with MIP even if you are not found in actual possession of alcohol. Any evidence that you consumed alcohol (including the odor of alcohol on your breath) will be enough for an officer to charge you with a MIP.

As mentioned, for a person under the age of 21, the “legal limit” is only .02. As a result, people are charged with driving under the influence, while not being impaired. Essentially, Georgia has a zero-tolerance policy for underage drivers. Any amount of alcohol use before driving is illegal for drivers under the age of 21.

When a young person is charged with a crime, there can be lifetime consequences, such as lost employment opportunities, lost scholarships, and the suspension of their driver's license.

Severe Georgia DUI Penalties and punishments do not have to happen. We are here to help. Our offices have over 50 combined years of experience defending young people. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.