An MIP Attorney who understands what you’re going through

There are a number of colleges and universities in Columbia and its neighboring areas that draw thousands of students to the area each year.  Law enforcement is always on the lookout for the students using drinking alcohol or using drugs. Knowing and understanding South Carolina law is important. Therefore, the assistance of a MIP attorney Columbia, SC might be wise.  Unfortunately, it’s not unusual for students in the Columbia  area to find themselves charged with disorderly conduct, MIP (Underage drinking), DUI, marijuana possession, other drug crimes, theft, sex crimes, and even violent crimes. 

No one sets out with the intention of being arrested, but it’s not difficult to find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time. For more than 28 years, Columbia minor in possession attorney, David Tarr, has provided knowledgeable assistance to young people who’ve been charged with a crime. David Tarr has a track record of successfully minimizing the negative repercussions students face when running afoul of the law in South Carolina.

Understanding ‘Minor in Possession’ MIP Charges

Under-age drinking laws and other associated laws are designed to punish those who consume an alcoholic beverage under the age of 21. They are also used to convict those who provide alcohol to minors. There are also related laws which deal with the creation and use of fake ID, altered id, or driver’s license.

The penalty for consumption of alcohol by someone under 21 could be jail time, a fine, suspension of your driving license, a requirement to take part in an alcohol education program or to do community service.  Also, if you are a college student, you may be called in to answer for alleged violations of the student conduct policy at your school.

South Carolina MIP Laws

MIP charges are a misdemeanor. These laws apply if a person under 21:

• Buys, or attempts to buy alcohol
• Consumes alcohol
• Knowingly uses false information to obtain alcohol

The consequences of MIP charges are, a fine between $100 and $200 (plus substantial court costs), up to 30 days of jail time, or both, as decided by the judge. Violators may also be required to complete an approved alcohol prevention education program, at their own expense.  In an attempt to avoid these consequences, you may want to consider hiring a law firm with a minor in possession lawyer in Columbia, SC.

You don’t have to be drinking to be charged with MIP

​​​The number one drug for use and abuse in the USA and South Carolina is alcohol. Unfortunately, this statistic includes young people. It is illegal for persons under the age of 21 to possess or consume alcohol, and doing so could lead to a minor in possession (MIP) charge.

Attempting to buy alcohol, or asking someone else to do so for you could lead to an underage drinking arrest. Adults who buy on your behalf or sales assistants who sell to you can also be arrested.

That arrest could then go on to impact your student loans, your place at college and prevent you from getting work once you graduate.

Consequences of Underage DUI Charges

A choice to get behind the wheel after you’ve been drinking isn’t usually a good one. Anyone charged with driving under the influence or while intoxicated has a lot on the line. Students aren’t just anyone, though. Not only do you face the severe DUI penalties that everyone else deals with when charged, but the possibility of expulsion from school, losing your financial aid, and having a criminal record accompanies an arrest for DUI.

MIP Lawyer in Columbia, SC

Regardless of the severity of charges and penalties you’re facing, David Tarr, an experienced MIP attorney, can offer you the benefit of experienced MIP and DUI lawyer and the know-how to limit the penalties, regardless of the crime you’re charged with.

​David Tarr defends students attending colleges and universities throughout the Midlands of South Carolina, including:

• The University of South Carolina (UofSC)
• Midlands Technical College
• Allen University
• Benedict College
• Newberry College
• South Carolina State University
• Claflin University.

​If you’re a young person, or the parent of a young person, charged with a criminal offense, you should contact a criminal defense attorney experienced with juvenile offenders for a free consultation.