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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 Pennsylvania, the legal age for purchasing and publicly possessing alcoholic beverages is 21 years old, in accordance with federal law and state statutes. The state does make exceptions for underage possession of alcohol in certain circumstances, such as when minors are on private property and have parental consent, or for religious purposes. However, these exceptions are limited and specific. The penalties for violating the state's Minor in Possession (MIP) laws can include fines, mandatory alcohol education or intervention programs, community service, and potentially loss of driving privileges. The severity of the penalties often depends on the circumstances of the offense and the individual's prior record.

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Criminal charges

minor in possession

Individual & Family Legal Plan

Articles

Pennsylvania State Code

Criminal charges

minor in possession

Pennsylvania State Code

Articles