Selling alcohol to underage patrons can result in penalties. State laws for selling alcohol to minors vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, so the actual consequence for selling alcohol to minors depends upon where the instance occurs. The penalty one receives is usually administered by a liquor licensing board, or a liquor control authority of the particular jurisdiction which has the oversight authority to administer the license and enforce the licensing provisions affiliated with the license. Generally, the selling of alcohol to minors can result in the complete loss of a liquor license.
Additionally, the license holder may be fined. Moreover, the license holder could have the license suspended. Furthermore, the license could be subject to a probationary period wherein if another instance occurs, the license will be immediately suspended.
Sentencing for Selling Alcohol to Minors
Since the law varies from one state to the next, the legal repercussions for selling alcohol to minors also varies. These legal repercussions can include any of the general penalties aforementioned. Additionally, serving minors alcohol may result in a criminal penalty. In many states, the sale of liquor to a minor is a misdemeanor. As a result, a short jail sentence and fine could be imposed. Moreover, in some jurisdictions, the sale of alcohol to a minor under age eighteen involves a steeper jail sentence, such as a year, and an increased fine. Finally, if the actual liquor licensee sells alcohol directly to the minor, the licensee may automatically by statute, lose his or her liquor license.
Help from a Criminal Defense Lawyer
In the event that you have received a criminal summons or other citation for selling or serving alcohol to a minor, it is imperative to consult with an experienced attorney. This attorney will not only have expertise in handling these matters, but also the attorney will fully understand the intricacies of the particular state’s liquor licensing board’s hearing process and therefore increase the likelihood of a positive outcome.
