What should I do if I was charged with distributing alcohol to minors?
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What should I do if I was charged with distributing alcohol to minors?
I met the girl through an online dating site. Since her school doesn’t allow alcohol she asked if I would buy her some. I did and found out later she was underage when the cops showed up at my place. I only met this girl once and not for very long. I have no criminal background and The prosecuting attorney said if I pled guilty he was going to send me to jail. I don’t really have any money for a lawyer.
Asked on February 4, 2014 under Criminal Law, Idaho
Answers:
FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 9 years ago | Contributor
Licensee - Generally, selling to a minor is considered a class-2 misdemeanor in most states, which means it only carries a 30 day maximum sentence and a small fine (incarceration is unlikely). However, if the minor is under 18 years of age, then it usually increased to a class-1 misdemeanor, which is a full year in jail and a $1,000 fine. In addition, civil penalties will be awarded against the licensee for the vicarious liability of the clerk, starting from $500 and doubling for each offense (if the clerk has not attended any state mandated training courses, these fines may double). Also, if the licensee himself sells alcohol to a minor, many states will automatically revoke the license.
Based upon what you have written about, you need to consult with the public defender's office in the county where the charge is pending to see if you qualify for representation.
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