First Underage Possesion of Alcohol in Virginia
My question involves criminal law for the state of: Virginia
I'm 17 years old and I was recently at a cabin party there was alcohol there and the cops showed up. They breathalized most of the people and I blew a .04. All of the people have the same court date as I have. If I plead guilty what would my consequences be? And should I consider hiring a lawyer?
Re: First Underage Possesion of Alcohol in Virginia
At 17 you'll probably need to bring a parent to JDC court.
You'll get 50 hours of community service and take an 8 hour alcohol course.
You'll lose your driver's license.
You'll have a criminal record.
Re: First Underage Possesion of Alcohol in Virginia
First, talk to your parents and let then know about this if you haven't already. This is a criminal offense in VA, though likely the conviction would not follow you as an adult. Virginia has a 'first offender' law that makes the penalty less harsh if this is your first criminal offense.
Most get 50 hours community service and have to do the 8 hour alcohol course which you have to pay for (appx $ 220) under the first offender status. Driver's license loss is not usually done for first offense.
Always refuse a field breathalyzer test, you are not required to take it. You will have to take one at the station, however, if detained.
An attorney will cost you appx $ 750. Always a good idea when up against a criminal offense in my opinion.