In Minnesota, purchasing alcohol as a minor is illegal under Minnesota Statute 340A.503. This law prohibits individuals under 21 from buying, attempting to buy, or possessing alcoholic beverages. Violating these laws can lead to serious legal consequences for both the minor and the person assisting them.
The statute covers various scenarios, including attempting to purchase alcohol with a fake ID, or asking someone of legal age to buy alcohol for you. This law aims to prevent underage drinking and its associated risks, such as accidents, health problems, and other potential harms that minors may face when consuming alcohol.
Apple Valley Criminal Defense Lawyer
James Blumberg is a qualified criminal defense attorney who focuses on criminal defense. With extensive experience serving Minnesota, Blumberg will fight hard to protect you against a criminal charge.
To find out more about how an experienced criminal defense attorney can help your case, call us today at (952) 431-7758. Your first consultation is free, so call now.
Information Center for Purchasing Alcohol as a Minor
What is Purchasing Alcohol as a Minor?
Under Minnesota Statute 340A.503, it is illegal for minors to buy, attempt to buy, or possess alcohol. This can happen in various situations:
Using a Fake ID to Purchase Alcohol
- Scenario: A 19-year-old uses a fake ID to purchase alcohol at a liquor store. This is illegal and can result in criminal charges if caught.
Asking Someone to Purchase Alcohol for You
- Scenario: A 17-year-old asks their 22-year-old sibling to purchase alcohol for a party. Both the minor and the adult can face criminal charges.
Attempting to Purchase Alcohol at a Bar or Restaurant
- Scenario: A minor tries to buy alcohol at a restaurant and shows false identification. If the establishment catches the minor or reports them, it can lead to legal consequences.
Penalties
In Minnesota, the penalties for purchasing alcohol as a minor can be serious:
Misdemeanor:
- Up to 90 days in jail and
- A $1,000 fine.
Gross Misdemeanor (if harm results from the alcohol purchase):
- Up to 1 year in jail and
- Fines of up to $3,000.
Additionally, the minor’s driver’s license may be suspended as part of the consequences.
Defenses
There are several defenses that may be applicable in cases involving the purchase of alcohol by minors:
Lack of Knowledge:
- The minor might argue they did not know alcohol was being purchased or delivered on their behalf.
Lack of Intent:
- If the minor did not intend to actually purchase alcohol, they may contest the charge based on a misunderstanding of their actions.
Additional Resources:
- Minnesota Statute 340A.503: It is unlawful for a minor to purchase, possess, or consume alcohol.
- “What’s the Big Deal?”: A brochure in Minnesota made to educate its youth on the consequences of underage drinking.
Contact a Minnesota Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you have been charged with purchasing alcohol as a minor, you do not have to tackle the criminal justice system alone. Contact Dakota County criminal defense attorney James Blumberg at (952) 431-7758 to begin building a strong defense. Your future is important, and he can use his knowledge and experience on both sides of the law to help you protect it.
James Blumberg Law accepts clients in Dakota County and other surrounding communities including Rice County, Carver County, Scott County, Sibley County, Dodge County, Steele County, and Sibley County.