Were you or your college student charged with an underage drinking offense in Cincinnati, Ohio? A conviction can lead to consequences that may severely limit your freedom going forward. Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers is here to help you take on the prosecution and work toward a favorable outcome.
We are a top-rated criminal defense law firm in Ohio, and our attorneys have 100+ years of combined experience. Our team includes former police officers and prosecutors who understand how the other side thinks, and we use that knowledge to prepare strong cases for defendants.
Contact our law offices today at (513) 333-0014 for a free consultation with a Cincinnati underage drinking defense attorney. We can review your charges and offer some initial legal advice at that time.
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How Can Suhre & Associates Help Me if I Was Charged With Underage Drinking in Cincinnati, OH?
An underage drinking charge might seem minor compared to other criminal offenses, but the reality is that these charges can have a lasting impact on a young person’s future. The prosecution takes these charges seriously, and you should too.
At Suhre & Associates, we bring a unique perspective to criminal defense that other law firms can’t match. We know firsthand how underage drinking allegations are investigated and how the state builds its cases, which allows us to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
When you hire our Cincinnati college student defense lawyers, we can:
- Investigate the circumstances of the arrest and the evidence against you
- Determine whether your constitutional rights were violated
- File motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence
- Negotiate with prosecutors to have your charges dismissed if possible
- Represent you at all court hearings and at trial if necessary
Call our law offices in Cincinnati, OH, today to get started with a free case review. Our Cincinnati criminal defense lawyers are ready to help you fight for your rights throughout the entire legal process.
Underage Drinking Laws in Ohio
Broadly speaking, Ohio law prohibits anyone under the age of 21 from purchasing, possessing, or consuming alcohol. These offenses are governed primarily by Ohio Revised Code § 4301.69, which outlines the specific conduct that is prohibited and the penalties that may apply.
Under this statute, it is generally illegal for a person under 21 to:
- Purchase or attempt to purchase any beer, wine, or liquor
- Consume alcohol in any public or private place
- Use a fake ID or another person’s identification to obtain alcohol
- Knowingly be in a place where underage drinking is occurring under certain circumstances
However, note that there are certain exceptions to this law where underage drinking may be prohibited. For example, these charges may not apply if the minor was given the alcohol by their parent and was under that parent’s supervision at that time. A Cincinnati criminal defense attorney can help you understand your charges and how the law applies to your individual circumstances.
Potential Penalties for Underage Drinking in Cincinnati
The penalties for underage drinking in Ohio depend, at least in large part, on whether it is a first offense or a repeat violation.
A first offense is generally classified as a first-degree misdemeanor and carries potential penalties of up to 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $500
However, diversion is often a plea option for a first-time offender and may allow them to escape these penalties if they complete the program successfully. Repeat offenders may not be offered this option and may face more serious consequences from the court, including higher fines and longer jail sentences.
A conviction could also lead to serious collateral consequences that can stay with you long after you’ve served your penalties from the court.
If you are a student who was caught on campus, penalties can include disciplinary action from your school, such as expulsion or loss of financial aid. Our Cincinnati student defense lawyers are dedicated to protecting your rights and minimizing the impact on your future. When facing these charges, it’s crucial to have experienced legal representation on your side.
What Defenses Can I Raise If I Was Charged With Underage Drinking in Ohio?
The prosecution must prove every element of your charges beyond a reasonable doubt, which is the highest burden of proof standard in the law.
Depending on the facts of your case, there may be several defenses available, such as:
- The initial stop by law enforcement was unlawful
- Evidence was obtained through an illegal search and seizure
- You were not actually in possession of or consuming alcohol
- A testing device, such as a breathalyzer, produced inaccurate results
- You fall under a recognized exception, as discussed above
Our Cincinnati underage drinking defense lawyers can review the details of your case and determine which defense strategy is best suited to achieve a favorable outcome. We understand the serious consequences of an underage drinking conviction, including fines, jail time, and potential license suspension.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Cincinnati Underage Drinking Defense Attorneys Today
An underage drinking charge in Cincinnati, OH, must be taken seriously, but it is important to remember that a charge is not the same as a conviction. You still have the opportunity to fight back and protect your future with the right legal help.
At Suhre & Associates, our attorneys have 100+ years of combined experience and a unique background, including former police officers and prosecutors on our team. We’re ready to help you start fighting for your rights as soon as you are.
Contact our Cincinnati underage drinking defense lawyers today to schedule a free consultation.
