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Alcohol & Minors Representing People From All Walks of Life

Common Offenses Involving Minors 
And Alcohol

Within this county, hundreds of minors are charged with alcohol-related offenses each year. The attorneys at Arnold Terrill Ridenour, P.C., in Fort Wayne, have been representing young adults in criminal courts for many years. We take pride in protecting and explaining the rights of our clients. Good kids make mistakes, and we are here to help.

Was your child charged with minor consumption of alcohol? The lawyer you hire will make a difference. Call our law firm at (888) 912-7220.

Indiana Underage Drinking Laws

Under Indiana Code 7.1-5-7-7, possession of alcohol by a minor is also known as "Minor Consuming." An underage person can be charged with a Class C misdemeanor for knowingly possessing or consuming an alcoholic beverage. If the offense is committed while operating a motor vehicle, a court may order the minor's driver's license suspended for up to one year.

What Are The Penalties For Underage Drinking?

The punishments for misdemeanor alcohol-related offenses include but are not limited to jail time, alcohol counseling, license suspensions, and community service. For purposes of this discussion, a minor is a person at least eighteen years (18) of age, but less than twenty-one (21) years of age. Minors under the age of eighteen (18) who are charged with an alcohol-related offense may appear in the appropriate juvenile court. For more information about juvenile-related offenses and the juvenile justice system, please contact our office.

Simple Possession Is Enough

The state bears the burden to prove that you are a minor and that you possessed, consumed or transported alcohol in Allen County. The state is not required to prove intoxication with this charge. "Alcohol" is defined under Indiana law as: any liquid or solid that (1) contains one-half percent (0.5 percent) or more alcohol by volume; (2) is fit for human consumption; and (3) is reasonably likely, or intended, to be used as a beverage (I.C. 9-13-2-2.3).

Indiana Underage Drinking Laws

I.C. 7.1-5-7-10 prohibits a minor from entering any bar, tavern or public place where alcoholic beverages are sold or furnished. This offense is a Class C misdemeanor punishable up to sixty (60) days in jail upon conviction.

Additionally, a conviction for this offense might result in a driver's license suspension for a minimum of ninety (90) days and up to one (1) year (see I.C. 9-24-18-8 and/or 9-30-4-9). I.C. 7.1-5-7-11, however, sets forth many exempt locations where alcohol is served, such as a civic center, sports arena, recreational facility, restaurant or passenger airplane.

Fake ID Laws

I.C. 7.1-5-7-1 and 7.1-5-7-2 address offenses relating to the use and furnishing of false or altered driver's licenses (commonly referred to as "fake i.d."). A person commits a Class C infraction when he or she presents or sells or gives to another a false identification or driver's license for the purpose of purchasing or attempting to obtain an alcoholic beverage. A person found in violation of these provisions will also lose his or her driver's license for a minimum of ninety (90) days and up to one (1) year (see I.C. 9-24-18-8 and/or 9-30-4-9).

Contact Defense Attorneys Who Understand The Needs Of Juvenile Defenders

Should you or someone you know have any questions about the information stated above, please contact Arnold Terrill Ridenour, P.C., or call (888) 912-7220, and an attorney will be excited to speak with you.

The Reason We Work So Hard Read What Past Clients Had to Say

    "Mr. Arnold and Mr. Terrill are amazing!"

    They have both gone above and beyond for my family. I love the staff that I have worked with on our cases as well. Highly recommend!

    - Martha
    "I would highly recommend this firm to anyone in need of legal guidance!"

    Mr. Arnold has provided legal advice and guidance during a difficult situation of mine. I found him to be experienced, responsive, knowledgeable, and honest. While working with Mr. Arnold, I felt as though my situation was in adept and trustworthy hands.

    - Brendan
    "Mr. Terrill handled my case and did a great job."

    They have earned my trust as far as having many years of experience at their jobs and within the court system.

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    "This is a great firm with very dedicated attorneys and staff."

    They will always communicate each step of the process and help you navigate a difficult situation.

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    "The attorney did for me exactly what I needed."

    Professional and friendly through every step. The secretary was very kind and helpful. She stayed In touch and kept me updated through every step.

    - Kane
    "I wholeheartedly endorse Bart Arnold for all criminal/traffic matters."

    On two occasions, I had the good sense to call Bart after receiving a ticket. Bart handled everything perfectly all while billing me a figure much, much less than most local attorneys.

    - Kerry
    "Jeff Terrill - The best attorney in town!!!!"

    He will be honest and tell you upfront exactly what to do and how the cards will be dealt and how you're going to play your hand.

    - Nina
    "I know he worked relentlessly for me!"

    I was represented by Sean Arata on an infraction and could not have hoped for a better outcome.

    - Bridget

Why People Choose to Work With Arnold Terrill Ridenour, P.C.

We Will Protect Your Rights & Future
  • Renowned Reputation
    Our firm has built a great reputation due to our proven track record of success in complex cases.
  • Aggressive Defense

    Our legal team will provide a vigorous defense regardless of the severity of the charge. 

  • Accessible to Clients
    We understand that time is of the essence. We are available 24/7 and offer free consultations.
  • Unparalleled Experience

    At Arnold Terrill Ridenour, P.C., our attorneys have a combined 75 years of legal experience. 

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Arnold Terrill Ridenour, P.C. Arnold Terrill Ridenour, P.C.
Contact 888-912-7220
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127 West Berry Street
Suite 1000
Fort Wayne, IN 46802
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