Attorney for Minor in Possession (MIP) Offenses

Juvenile Crimes Lawyer

Minors in possession of alcohol is known as P.A.U.L.A. (Possession of Alcohol Under Legal Age) in the state of Iowa.  Iowa Code section 123.47 prohibits minors from purchasing or attempting to purchase, or possessing or having control of alcoholic beverages.  If your minor child has been arrested for this charge it is important to consult with a criminal defense attorney in order to protect and safeguard the rights of your child.

In order for prosecutors to be able to prosecute your minor's case the state must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that they had actual possession of the alcohol.  This includes proving they had control over the alcohol, had knowledge of the presence of the alcohol and knew that it was, in fact, alcohol.  Although this may sound a bit silly, there are circumstances where your minor child may have been with friends and was unaware that the substance was in fact alcohol, been told to hold a container in a bag that they were unaware contained alcohol, or various other circumstances that could make a difference between a conviction and a dismissal.  It is not illegal for a minor to possess an even consume alcohol if it is given to them in a private home with the knowledge and consent of a parent or guardian.

Penalties For Minor In Possession Charges

Penalties for a conviction can be frightening to a minor.  A first offense would be a misdemeanor with a mandatory minimum fine of $200.  A second offense is also a misdemeanor and carries a minimum fine of $500. The minor must also face between completing a substance abuse evaluation OR have their driver's license suspended for one year.  A third or subsequent offense is also a misdemeanor and carries a minimum fine of $500 and one year drivers license suspension.

If your child is facing minor in possession charges contact the McGuire Law Firm immediately so as to plan out the best legal defense for your child.  Don't allow your child to get into the criminal justice system with charges on his record.  Our experienced at caring attorneys have helped many families in fighting these charges and we can do the same for you. We offer our services throughout Iowa, including Mason City, Davenport, Des Moines, Sioux City and Cedar Rapids.