Underage Possession of Alcohol

Underage Possession of Alcohol in Virginia Beach

Protecting Your Child’s Future in Norfolk

We have several colleges in our area. We have a fantastic oceanfront and social scene. We have the Orange Crush. There are lots of temptations for minors and alcohol. Also, enforcement in our area is rather high. Minors in Possession of Alcohol is a topic we are asked about all the time. It’s critical to take your time on these cases and do it right. Sure, you can take a quick guilty plea to the first offender statute. You can do your community service hours and earn a dismissal. In some cases, that’s a fantastic result. But, in most cases that first offender plea, is NOT able to be expunged. There may be other options. We can help.

Our defense lawyer in Virginia Beach strives to minimize the impact of isolated mistakes on young lives. To discuss legal options, contact Hallauer Law Firm for a free attorney consultation.

Call us at (757) 474-0089, or fill out our online form. We can help you and your child if you’re in Chesapeake, Hampton, Newport News, Suffolk, and Portsmouth.

What is the Penalty for Underage Possession of Alcohol in Virginia?

Throughout Virginia, anyone under age 21 accused of purchasing or possessing an alcoholic beverage faces driver's license suspension, a fine, probation, and up to 50 hours of community service. As inconvenient as those penalties may be, real consequences may not be apparent until college applications, job interviews, or other life events come up. Things like scholarships, school events, and sport programs can be denied or forfeited.

Key points to consider include:

Paying the fine and accepting your sentence is pleading guilty. That creates a criminal record.
We may be able to completely protect your record.
You may be eligible for the first offender program and earn a dismissal.

Minor in possession (MIP) charges can also be filed simply because alcohol was detected in the young person's system. Those who are charged with possession or consumption of alcohol and are under the age of 18, must be tried in juvenile court. If the minor is between 16 and 18 years old, and has a drivers license or permit, it would be suspended for at least six months. If the minor is in the process of applying for a permit or license, that would be delayed for an additional six months past their eligibility date. All minors must complete a substance abuse program following the charges.

Where Can I Drive With a Restricted License?

Anyone under the age of 21 and charged with possession or consumption of alcohol may be eligible for a restricted license. This would apply only if he or she uses the license to drive to:

Their place of work
Get medical care
Attend their place of religious practice
Counseling services that the court has ordered

Capable Representation for Resident or Out-of-State Young People

We often represent students from area colleges and universities on a range of alcohol-related and drug charges, including MIP and DUI/DWI. We welcome students from the UVA and Virginia Tech campuses, Virginia Wesleyan, Tidewater Community College, Hampton, Old Dominion, Norfolk State, William & Mary, JMU, VCU, Radford and other institutions. In addition, Army, Navy, and other military personnel are especially comfortable with us because we speak their language and recognize specific needs and concerns.

At our firm, you can work closely with a Virginia Beach underage drinking defense attorney prepared to handle your case even if you were ticketed in Virginia but live elsewhere. If you are looking for solid representation for yourself or your child, we encourage you to contact us and talk about it.

Our doors are open – call our law firm at (757) 474-0089 for a free consultation. We offer compassionate, nonjudgmental service and want to clear your slate so your future is bright.

Continue Reading Read Less

A Navy Lawyer in a Navy Town Meet Attorney Scott F. Hallauer

Scott Hallauer is a seasoned trial attorney based in Virginia Beach, with a distinguished background as a former prosecutor and a Reserve Navy JAG Corps Officer. He brings decades of legal experience, offering dedicated representation in criminal defense, family law, traffic matters, personal injury, and military law. A graduate of Loyola University School of Law, Scott began his legal career in the Navy JAG Corps and later served as a prosecutor in Norfolk and Virginia Beach. Since founding his own firm in 2006, he has used his deep courtroom experience to defend clients across the Tidewater region. CAPT Hallauer continues to serve in the Navy Reserve and has earned multiple military honors for his service.

Learn More

Put Your Case in Our Hands

Four Reasons to Choose Hallauer Law Firm

28 Years of Experience
Our lead attorney has over two decades of experience helping clients throughout Hampton Roads.
Reserve JAG Officer & Former Prosecutor
Attorney Hallauer's unique experience as a JAG Officer and Prosecutor offers a strategic advantage to his clients.
Military Discounts
As gratitude for their service, we offer discounts to all military members, dependents, and veterans.
Free Consultations
Your initial consultation is always free and confidential.

Contact Us Today

Call (757) 474-0089

A member of our team will be in touch shortly to confirm your contact details or address questions you may have.

First Name
Please enter your first name.
Last Name
Please enter your last name.
Phone
Please enter your phone number.

This isn't a valid phone number.
Email
Please enter your email address.

This isn't a valid email address.
Are you a new client?
Please make a selection.
How can we help you?
Please enter a message.
By submitting, you agree to receive text messages from Hallauer Law Firm at the number provided, including those related to your inquiry, follow-ups, and review requests, via automated technology. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Msg & data rates may apply. Msg frequency may vary. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for assistance. Acceptable Use Policy

Client Reviews

Honest Feedback from Former Clients

"Provided Great Support to Our Family"
The professionalism and empathy displayed by this office has been greatly appreciated by our family.

- Lori H.
"Expert, Professional & Steadfast Representation"
I give the Hallauer law firm my highest recommendation for anyone seeking quality representation or legal advice.

- John K.
"Come to This Firm First"
Scott Hallauer and his staff are amazing people. They helped me get everything in the court system squared away and at a fair price. I highly recommend anyone looking for an attorney to come here first.

- George B.
"Goes Above & Beyond for His Clients"
He truly cares about his clients and will represent you like he was fighting for a family member.

- Amanda H.
"I Will Never Forget All He Has Done for My Family"
I would like to thank Mr. Hallauer for representing my husband. I will never forget all he has done for my family.

- Lisa H.
"Thank You for Your Time"
Your help speaks both to your character and professionalism and was greatly appreciated.

- Christina K.
"Very Professional & Courteous"
Hallauer Law Firm is an asset to the Hampton Roads Community.

- Melissa L.
"Outstanding Job"
The clients I have referred them are always please with their representation.

- Hopkins Bail Bonds

View All Reviews