Legal Consequences for a Minor in Consumption Charge in Arizona

As parents, we all want what is best for our kids. As they get older, however, they start to make choices that are often outside of our control. This may even include things like drinking alcohol before they are 21.

In Arizona, anyone who possesses or consumes alcohol before the age of 21 can be charged with the misdemeanor offense of minor in possession/consumption. In addition to jail time, fines, fees, and a license suspension, there may also be collateral consequences like difficulty obtaining a job or even an impact on their scholarship or status as a college student. If your child has been charged with minor in consumption (MIC), it is especially important that they have a skilled Arizona criminal defense lawyer to represent their interests.

At Matthew Lopez Law, we represent both adults and teens on a range of charges, including those related to alcohol, such as MIC and DUI. We offer free initial consultations to all prospective clients so that you can understand your rights and options for defending yourself against MIC and other criminal charges. Reach out to our law firm today to talk to a Maricopa County criminal defense attorney.

Criminal Penalties for Minor in Consumption in Arizona

Under Arizona law, it is illegal for a person under the age of 21 (a minor) to buy, receive, possess, or consume alcohol. This charge is referred to as minor in possession or minor in consumption (MIC). While there are some very limited exceptions to the law, as a general rule, if a minor either has alcohol in their possession (whether open or sealed) or drinks alcohol, they could be charged with MIC.

This charge is a Class 1 misdemeanor. The potential penalty for a conviction includes up to 180 days in jail, 3 years of probation, and up to $4,575 in fees and fines. Anyone under the age of 18 who is convicted of MIC will also have their driver’s license suspended for 180 days.

These consequences are harsh and are reason enough to hire a lawyer if your child is charged with minor in possession/consumption. However, there are also potential collateral consequences that can affect your child’s life if they are convicted of MIC. Our Maricopa County criminal defense attorneys will fight to protect your child’s rights and their future.

How Will a Minor in Consumption Charge Affect Future Employment?

Any type of criminal conviction can impact future employment. A minor in consumption conviction will result in a criminal record. This offense will show up on background checks, which means that it could impact future employment.

Unlike many other states, Arizona does not have a “ban the box” law. This means that employers can ask job applicants about any past criminal convictions, although a prior conviction will not be an absolute bar to employment. It is possible that some employers won’t be concerned about a minor in consumption charge from when an applicant was a teenager or a young adult. However, if the job involves driving or is sensitive in some way, it could impact their ability to get a job, including with a government agency.

Having a criminal record will not automatically disqualify a person from joining the military. Generally, less serious misdemeanor offenses (such as MIC) will not be a barrier to joining the military, although applicants will have to disclose the record. It may still require a waiver, which will include documentation of the offense, a personal statement, and recommendation letters.

In most cases, a conviction as a juvenile (under the age of 18) will not show up on a criminal background check. Juvenile records are typically sealed, although in Arizona, they could potentially be used in some circumstances (such as in adult criminal cases). Generally, juvenile records in Arizona are not released to the general public without proper authorization. 

Under Arizona’s new expungement laws, it may be possible to have a MIC conviction sealed. This will ensure that the record does not show up on background checks, but it will still be accessible to law enforcement and licensing agencies. Of course, the best option is to avoid the conviction entirely, which is why it is so important to consult with an Arizona minor in possession lawyer if your child has been charged with this offense.

Will a Minor in Consumption Conviction Affect My Child’s College Career?

Being convicted of a crime can impact a student’s academic options. This includes misdemeanor offenses like minor in possession/consumption. If your child has been convicted of any criminal offense, it could have a serious impact on their future.

A college or university might revoke an admission offer if a teen is charged with a crime. Many colleges also ask about criminal records during the application process. If your teen is convicted of MIC, it could limit their academic options.

A conviction for minor in possession/consumption will not affect your child’s eligibility for federal financial aid. However, it could affect their eligibility for private scholarships and other forms of aid. These programs often come with specific requirements that include adherence to a code of conduct. Being convicted of a crime could mean that your student loses that scholarship.

Similarly, if your child is or plans to be a collegiate athlete, a conviction could derail that possibility. Many colleges may penalize a student-athlete for a criminal conviction. In more serious cases, this could include having a scholarship revoked and being removed from a team.

It is important to understand that while underage drinking might be viewed as a rite of passage and pretty normal teen behavior, it is still a crime in Arizona. This means that your child could face legal, academic, career, and financial consequences for a minor in consumption charge. The best way to achieve a good outcome, which may include a dismissal of the charges or a reduced charge, is by working with a seasoned Maricopa County criminal defense lawyer.

Charged with MIC? Give Our Law Firm a Call.

You might not think that it’s a big deal if your teen has a few beers with friends. Unfortunately, law enforcement in Arizona will likely disagree with this position. If your child is charged with minor in possession/consumption, they could face a range of serious consequences. Our law offices can help.
Matthew Lopez Law is dedicated to helping clients achieve the best possible outcome for their case, including misdemeanor minor in possession/consumption charges. We offer free initial consultations to all prospective clients. To learn more or to schedule an appointment with an Arizona criminal attorney, give us a call at 480-608-9998 or fill out our online contact form.