Skilled, Resourceful Oregon Underage Alcohol Possession Lawyers
Although it is labeled as a violation rather than a misdemeanor or felony under Oregon law, a minor in possession of alcohol (MIP) charge can have serious, far-reaching consequences. It is common for young people charged with MIP to avoid telling their parents, and also for parents to underestimate the seriousness of repercussions.
At Helzer Cromar & Schneider in Beaverton, we help many Portland-area students and parents fully understand MIP conviction penalties and make sound decisions about how to handle the charge. Our Portland minor-in-possession defense attorneys have helped many parents protect their children's records and futures, and the sooner you contact us, the more options may be available.
MIP Penalties Include a One-Year Driver's License Suspension
Penalties for a first-time minor in possession conviction include a substantial fine and a one-year driver's license suspension — with the ability to petition the court for reinstatement of driving privileges after 90 days. Many young people also face discipline, such as exclusion from activities or even school suspension, under their college or university codes of conduct.
A person does not have to be drunk or "over the limit" by measure of blood alcohol content (BAC) to be charged with MIP. It is very common for MIP tickets to be issued to students for simple possession or even for simply being at a party or having had one drink.
Our defense and appeals experience extends to:
- Young people 18 to 21, as well as juveniles charged with Oregon MIP
- Multiple MIP offense cases — for which the full one-year license suspension cannot be lifted through petition, and the offender is required to complete an alcohol assessment or evaluation
- Extensive work on behalf of Portland metro and out-of-state parents who want to ensure their children's rights are protected to the maximum extent in an MIP case
- Underage DUI defense, including pursuit of diversion for first-time Oregon DUI offenders
- Expungements and record-sealing
Get Sound Guidance and Make Solid Decisions: Call 503-608-7851 Now
While we fully recognize the problem and costs of underage drinking, we also believe it is important for penalties to be administered in a way that is constructive for our youth. Legal advocacy based on a student's individual situation and practical needs is essential. For experienced legal guidance, call or e-mail a caring defense attorney at our firm.
