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Criminal charges

minor in possession

Laws in each state generally require a person to be 21 years of age or older to possess alcoholic beverages. Some states make limited exceptions, such as when underage persons have parental permission and are on private property. The penalties for this offense known as a minor in possession (MIP) or possession of alcohol under the legal age (PAULA) vary from state to state. All 50 states and the District of Columbia also have laws that require a person to be 21 years of age or older to purchase alcoholic beverages.

In New York State, the legal drinking age is 21 years old, which is consistent with the federal National Minimum Drinking Age Act of 1984 that required all states to raise their minimum purchase and public possession of alcohol age to 21. Underage possession of alcohol is generally prohibited with some exceptions, such as when the underage individual is accompanied by a parent or guardian, or for certain religious or medical purposes. The penalties for minors in possession (MIP) of alcohol can include fines, community service, and mandatory alcohol awareness education or intervention programs. Additionally, New York has a 'zero tolerance' law that applies to drivers under 21 who are caught with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.02% to 0.07%. This can result in license suspension and other penalties. It is also illegal in New York for anyone to provide alcohol to minors, with potential criminal charges for those who do so.

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Criminal charges

minor in possession

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Criminal charges

minor in possession

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