Purchasing Alcohol for a Minor in Michigan

My question involves criminal law for the state of: Michigan

I have not been charged or cited for anything yet; but I have been questioned by an officer about (and stupidly admitted to) providing a friend of mine with alcohol.

The story is that said friend of mine talked me into buying for him (who is currently 18.) He then went to his girlfriends house and supplied 3 other minors (that I know of) with it; one of which has been hospitalized for alcohol poisoning. I feel completely miserable for the whole thing, but now with the update that everyone involved will fully recover I'm now worried about the legal implications for my part in the events.

Before this my record has been spotless so I'm hoping that works in my favor.

My question are:
What are the possible charges that I'm facing?
What are my chances of not having this go on my record?
Will this effect my plans for college / financial aid in the near future?
What is my best coarse of action at this moment (besides contacting a lawyer)?

Thanks for any help.

See this thread.

http://www.expertlaw.com/forums/showthread.php?t=117235

And yes, in Livingston County someone just got slapped with prison because the person she supplied to died of alcohol poisoning.

I'm not very good at interpreting the law. My guess is that since this is my first attempt and nobody has died or received serious injury that has resulted in death and I'm looking at up to a $1,000 fine and/or up to 60 days in jail with an almost certain chance of having a criminal misdemeanor go on my record. Is this correct?

Do I have any defensive options against this? Is there anything I should be looking into asap?

Again, any help is greatly appreciated.

Chances are, since someone was hospitalized for alcohol poisoning, you may be getting a charge of causing bodily injury that could have resulted in death.

Chances are, if she did not have health insurance, her parents/their insurance company may take you to Civil Court to be reimbursed for the medical expenses (one night in the hospital typically runs $7000+, yes seriously - that is just for the room, not for any treatment or doctors/nurses....)

You would be wise to seek a Criminal Defense Lawyer in the town in which this happened.

Also, you may face losing your drivers license.

Quote:

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Quoting afrobacon

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My guess is that since this is my first attempt and nobody has died or received serious injury that has resulted in death and I'm looking at up to a $1,000 fine and/or up to 60 days in jail with an almost certain chance of having a criminal misdemeanor go on my record. Is this correct?

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You are correct, as far as you've taken it. However, you could actually be charged with 4 counts with ^^that^^ maximum penalty for each count. You also almost certainly have a civil suit coming your way for at least the kid that was hospitalized.

As for your other questions:
I doubt there is any chance you will not wind up with a criminal record.
Yes, this is very likely to negatively affect your college plans...both with admissions and with financial aid.
Your best course of action is to make no further statements to any authority without an attorney present. Find an attorney right now. If you qualify, you can wait (with your mouth shut) until your first hearing and request a public defender. However, a PD will only be available for your criminal charge(es)...for the (likely) civil suit, you're on your own.

See, the thing with the college is they are going to see a lot of liability in accepting you, a student who has already supplied minors with alcohol. They won't want the risk.

Thanks for clearing everything up. I knew as soon as I saw the officer to keep my mouth shut; but for some reason I let my honesty get the better of me. I do believe I can keep it shut for now on; especially with the consequences that about to precede my last failed attempt.

I do know the kid that has been hospitalized fairly well (practically considered family); if I would have known that he would have been involved with this matter I believe I wouldn't have caved in and bought the stuff in the first place. It's quite easy to say that I won't make this mistake again; and if I can prevent someone else from making it in the future I won't hesitate to do so.

My thing with college is that for the last two years I have done nothing but spend seemingly every waking moment working to maintain honors and complete two associates. All in an attempt better my chances of acceptance to a higher institution. It truly hurts to have done that in vain; however, I'm not the only person that is affected so the punishment seems deserved.

Thanks again.

In addition to very likely criminal charges, you can expect to be sued in civil court if the kid's parents have any sense or legal advice and I am not talking about small claims.

Although I don't see any reason to assume the worst case scenario, it does sound like you need to be working with a criminal defense lawyer. You're over 21 and the facts aren't favorable.

I have had two consultations earlier today. The first informed me that not much can be done other than a slight reduction in fines and jail time; which is pretty much what I was expecting. The second seemed more confident and said if he can talk to the court(?) before a warrant is issued there is a good chance I will receive no jail time; which would be in favor for what will be reflected on my record.

The first seemed like too big of an expense for what is expected. The second; while favorable, seems to me a little ambitious given the circumstances. I have also scheduled a meeting the second for next Tuesday (which seems a bit late for what he wants to accomplish).

I have also spoken to two of the families involved; not divulging any information, just checking in on how everyone is holding up. Both; given the actions of the 18yo and the events that happened, say they will back me in any defense I'm able to come up with. This is of coarse if my story remains factual. They believe that what has happened is very unfortunate but its as much their fault as it is mine. My feeling is that more of the blame should rest on me; given that I'm older and it is my actions that kick started the chain of events. I know the families ultimately have no say in the courts ruling; but will this help my defense?