A charge for underage drinking or driving under the influence, or related alcohol related offenses such as public intoxication, can have lasting consequences, from fines and driver’s license suspension to a permanent criminal offense record that impacts a person’s life and future. Your Indianapolis underage drinking lawyer from Wruble Law LLC is an experienced attorney ready to fight for your rights and work toward the best possible outcome for young people, college students, and first-time offenders. Do not let a single mistake define your future. Contact us today to find out what your legal options are during a free initial consultation and what your next steps should be.
Why Choose Wruble Law Firm to Challenge Your Charges?
Underage driver DUI and underage drinking cases in Indiana can carry serious consequences, including fines, a minor’s driving privileges suspended, a permanent criminal record, and involvement with the state’s juvenile court system for allegations of juvenile delinquency or being labeled a juvenile delinquent. A conviction can impact your college admissions, job opportunities, and even your ability to obtain financial aid. Our firm works to reduce or dismiss these charges using an aggressive defense strategy, including seeking diversion programs or a diversion agreement when appropriate, ensuring that a single mistake does not have lasting effects on your future.
We will analyze every aspect of your case, from whether you knowingly possess an alcoholic beverage, attempt to obtain alcohol, or allegedly used a fake ID or false identification, to whether law enforcement relied on a false statement or improper procedures. If there were errors in the way your citation was issued, if your rights were violated, or if the situation did not present imminent danger, we will challenge the evidence against you. Our goal is to protect your record, reduce penalties, help avoid jail time where possible, prevent mandatory enrollment in an alcohol treatment program, and help you move forward without long-term consequences.
What Is an Underage Drinking in Indiana Citation?
In Indiana, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to possess, consume, or transport alcohol. Under Indiana Code § 7.1-5-7-7, a minor caught with alcohol can face a misdemeanor charge, which may result in fines, probation, and mandatory community service. Even a first-time offense can affect college students and eligibility for financial aid, leading to a criminal record, which can affect future opportunities.
What Defenses Are Available for Underage Drinking Charges in Indianapolis?
A charge for underage drinking does not automatically mean a conviction. Several defenses may apply depending on the circumstances of the case. The following legal strategies can be used to fight underage drinking charges:
- Lack of possession – Simply being near alcohol does not mean you were in possession of it, and it does not prove you knowingly possess it or exercise control over someone else’s drink. Prosecutors must prove that you had actual control over the alcohol to secure a conviction.
- Illegal search and seizure – If police officers obtain evidence without a valid search warrant or probable cause, that evidence may be inadmissible in court. Violations of your constitutional rights can result in a dismissal of charges.
- Mistaken identity – In crowded social settings, law enforcement officers may mistakenly cite the wrong person, leading to false identification, especially on college campuses. If no direct evidence connects you to the alcohol, the case against you may be weak.
- Parental exception – Indiana law allows minors to consume alcohol in private residences if supervised by a parent or guardian. If your consumption occurred under these conditions, the charges may not apply.
- Lack of probable cause – If officers stopped you or searched you without reasonable suspicion, any evidence they collected may be thrown out, and charges involving disorderly conduct, controlled substance, or intoxication-caused behavior must be independently proven. Challenging the legality of the stop can weaken the prosecution’s case.
Call Our Indianapolis Underage Drinking Lawyers Today
An underage drinking charge can follow a child for years, but the right criminal defense strategy with a criminal defense attorney can help protect your future opportunities and prospects. Our firm is ready to challenge the prosecution’s case and fight for a favorable resolution, even if your case involves alcohol related offenses, public intoxication, or threats to your driver’s license. Call now or fill out our confidential contact form to schedule a free initial consultation with your underage drinking lawyer in Indianapolis from Wruble Law LLC.